
With your child in orthodontic treatment, it is more important than ever that they maintain a high standard of oral hygiene and health. There have been many cases where children have a great deal of tooth decay by the time they have their orthodontic brackets removed. The good news is that this can be easy to avoid with the proper home and professional care. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, along with preventative professional dental cleanings, diet plays a big role in keeping the teeth free of decay. The following acidic and sugary drinks are the biggest culprits in causing tooth decay.
- Soda: Not only is soda very high in sugar content, but it is also acidic. Remember the science experiment where you soaked an egg overnight in a cup of soda? The soda ends up dissolving the eggshell and has a similar effect on the outer layer of your teeth. A small can of coke contains 10 teaspoons of sugar!
- Fruit Drinks: Fruit drinks are disguised as being “healthy”, but actually contain a great deal of sugar. Many types of apple juice have about 10 teaspoons of sugar, which is just as much as a can of soda. Even orange juice contains a hefty amount of sugar and can erode your enamel because of the acidity. Our children’s dentist in 91737 recommends to stick to juices that are diluted or have a reduced amount of sugar; Honest Kids Organics is a good choice.
- Sports/Energy Drinks: Gatorade, Red Bull, and any other type of “hydration” or energy drink almost always has just as much sugar as soda, if not more. If your child is playing a sport and needs the electrolytes, there are healthier drinks out there. Check the sugar content before you purchase any of these drinks.
- Coffee: Many premade coffee drinks have high sugar content, including frappucinos and many drinks from popular coffee shops. Coffee itself is very acidic and can wear away the enamel on your teeth. In addition to the acidity and sugar, coffee stains the teeth. When there are brackets or appliances on the teeth, it creates many areas for the stain to build up.
There are many other beverages, especially for children, that contain hidden sugar. Always be sure to check the sugar content before purchasing a drink for your child. The best option is always water. To add flavor, try infusing the water with fruit. If you are concerned with your child’s diet and oral hygiene, give our children’s dental office in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call to schedule a consultation.