Every health-conscious parent knows that sugar is the number one cause of cavities for kids. (It’s not good for adult teeth, either.) Here are some more facts about sugar, from Kernagis Dental Excellence in Tampa.
Because of cavity risks, low nutritional value, and high-calorie content, many parents want to limit the sugar in their children’s diets. Obviously, there is a lot of sugar in bubble gum, lollipops, and gummy candy. But there is also sugar lurking in so-called ‘healthy’ snacks.
The following snacks may have more sugar than you think:
- yogurt covered raisins
- fruit snacks including the roll-up and syrup-filled varieties
- rice cakes
- many brands of yogurt including the hand-held type
- juice drinks
- flavored milk
- barbecue sauce
- fruit smoothies
- cereal bars
Controlling sugar intake in your child’s diet is essential for lifelong oral health. When choosing lunchbox or after-school snacks, make sure you read the labels. Sugar content varies among brands.
Sugar is not the only thing to watch out for. If your child’s diet is lacking key vitamins and minerals, the tissues in their mouth may have trouble fighting infection. These infections can lead to gum disease.
At Kernagis Dental Excellence, we provide high-quality dentistry to families in the Florida communities of Tampa, FishHawk, and Carrollwood. Services include general and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today!
Contact Kernagis Dental Excellence:
813-863-9058
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 W Busch Blvd Ste C
Tampa, Florida
33612