Getting your kids to eat healthy can be a challenge! Yet, healthy foods are so important for your child’s well-being, especially when it comes to their dental health.

Encouraging your child to eat healthy foods can not only support their oral health now, but set the foundation for them to continue these healthy habits as they grow up and establish their own routines.

What are some kid-friendly foods that happen to be great for dental health? Try some of the below ideas to get your kids eating healthy and smiling bright!

Crunchy Veggies

There’s no arguing that crunchy veggies are a great snack for kids and adults alike. These vegetables can actually help clean teeth as kids chew, and as a bonus, they help encourage saliva production [1]. Having enough saliva in the mouth prevents dry mouth and offers extra protection against cavities.

Veggies you can try include raw carrots, apples, bell peppers, celery, and even raw cauliflower, broccoli, and sugar snap peas. If your kids are resistant to eating these vegetables on their own, healthy dips such as hummus, yogurt-based dips, and your own fun creations can make eating these healthy treats more exciting!

Nuts, Seeds, and Nut Butter

Nuts aren’t only crunchy to help encourage saliva production, but they also contain healthy fats, which can help protect against gum disease [2]. Different nuts and seeds can be fun and healthy to try, including pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds, and walnuts.

You can also try nut butters such as almond butter and cashew butter. Try nuts on their own, seeds sprinkled on salads, toast, and yogurt, and nut butters on veggies or sandwiches. Encourage kids to get creative when trying different foods for extra fun!

Calcium-Rich Foods

It’s no secret that calcium is an essential nutrient for teeth [3]. In fact, tooth enamel is mostly made of calcium, and calcium can encourage strong teeth and alveolar bone, the bone that helps anchor teeth in place.

Calcium can be found in dairy products, dark leafy greens, fortified plant-based milks, and beans, including soybean products. Getting enough calcium can not only be tasty, but help your little one’s smile to remain strong and healthy!

Encouraging Healthy Habits

Have your kids tried any of the above foods? Encouraging healthy habits in children can take time, so don’t be too discouraged if your kids are taking their time warming up to healthier snacking options. Ask your child’s dentist about other nutrients and oral care practices you can consider to keep your kid’s smile healthy and cavity-free!

Sources:
1. https://www.unitypoint.org/livewell/article.aspx?id=1bbcf46c-2d97-4195-8e7c-
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3320731/
3. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=1&conten