The role of nutrition in preventing cavities in baby teeth

Baby teeth play an essential role in the development of permanent teeth, as well as in speech and chewing, so it is important to give them special attention.

According to a study conducted in 2014, in Romania, 75% of children aged 5 to 13 have cavities in their baby teeth, and 40% of children up to 13 years old have cavities in their permanent teeth.

When cavities develop at an early age, there is a high risk that the roots of the permanent teeth will also be affected, which may even lead to early tooth loss.

This is why preventing cavities in baby teeth should be a priority for parents.

We all know that dentists recommend brushing teeth at least twice a day and using dental floss after the age of 4. However, cavities can also be prevented through proper nutrition.

The role of nutrition in preventing cavities in children

Nutrition directly affects oral health, and a proper diet plays an important role in the development of children’s teeth. Moreover, diet has a major influence on the occurrence and progression of cavities in baby teeth and can increase the risk of various dental problems.

Healthy teeth are maintained with a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and proteins, while avoiding foods that contribute to the development of cavities.

Here are the foods that should be avoided or limited to help keep your child’s teeth healthy:

Sweet and carbonated drinks
Juices, sodas, and other sweetened beverages should be limited, as sugars can damage the enamel and lead to cavities.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends avoiding juice completely for children under one year. As they grow, only small amounts should be introduced, due to the high sugar content which may lead to cavities and other health issues.

Instead, encourage your child to drink water as often as possible.

Snacks rich in sugar, starch and carbohydrates

When children eat chips, pretzels, cookies, or candy and don’t brush afterward, sugar stays in the mouth longer, promoting cavity formation.

Encourage your child to brush their teeth after every snack.

Sticky candies and gummies

Lollipops, caramel, gummies, and even dried fruits like raisins can stick to teeth long after eating. Honey, molasses, and syrup coat the teeth, feeding bacteria and contributing to plaque buildup.

Dentists recommend limiting these foods to once a day and always brushing teeth afterward.

Bread

When we chew bread, saliva breaks down the starch into sugar. This sticky paste can get trapped between teeth and lead to decay.
Whole grain options are a better choice, as they break down more slowly and contain less sugar.

Foods that help prevent cavities in baby teeth

While foods like chips, baked goods, and sweets can harm dental health, there are also foods that help prevent cavities. These either support enamel repair or provide essential nutrients, like proteins, that strengthen baby teeth enamel.

Some of the best foods for oral health include: apples, carrots, leafy greens, cheese, and fish.

Here are some tips that can help maintain your child’s dental health:

• Offer healthy choices multiple times: Children may need to try a new food up to 15 times before they start to like it. Don’t get discouraged—keep offering small portions regularly.
• Experiment with different textures: Some children enjoy raw foods, while others prefer them cooked. It’s often easier for kids to eat foods that are cut or chopped rather than whole. For example, sautéed carrots are easier to chew than raw ones, and some kids may prefer fresh vegetables over frozen ones.

In conclusion, food has a direct impact on dental health and plays a vital role in preventing cavities in baby teeth.

Along with proper oral hygiene (brushing twice a day and flossing) and regular visits to the pediatric dentist, a healthy diet supports overall health, protecting the teeth and gums from cavities and other dental problems—resulting in a healthy, beautiful smile.