{"id":23,"date":"2022-06-04T23:33:00","date_gmt":"2022-06-04T23:33:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hamiltonpediatrics.ca\/blog\/?p=23"},"modified":"2022-07-19T23:34:33","modified_gmt":"2022-07-19T23:34:33","slug":"childrens-cavities-and-how-drinks-can-contribute-to-the-problem","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hamiltonpediatrics.ca\/blog\/2022\/06\/04\/childrens-cavities-and-how-drinks-can-contribute-to-the-problem\/","title":{"rendered":"Are the Drinks You\u2019re Buying Your Child Causing Cavities?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If your child is like most youngsters, they are often found running around during the summer months with a juice box or sports drink in hand. While you might assume these beverages are completely harmless, the truth is they are common contributors to tooth decay. If you\u2019re wondering what the cause of your children\u2019s cavities might be, a pediatric dentist in Hamilton<\/a> explains why you\u2019ll want to swap out these summertime favorites for healthier options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why Are Cavities Common Among Children?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are many reasons why children are more prone to developing cavities. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, an estimated 42 percent of children aged 2-11 have cavities that form in their primary teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Apart from their minimal dexterity when it comes to brushing and flossing their teeth, their diets usually consist of unhealthy foods that lack valuable nutrients. Unfortunately, the juice boxes and sports drinks they beg you to buy at the store also contain sugar and are highly acidic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What does this mean? Although these may look appealing or promise \u201cquench their thirst,\u201d they do anything but that. Instead, they can remain on your child\u2019s teeth, resulting in bacteria turning into harmful acids that break down tooth enamel and cause cavities to form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How a Healthy Diet Can Safeguard Their Smile<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you want to do more to ensure your child is getting the necessary nutrients for greater energy and a healthier lifestyle, avoid purchasing these sugary beverages and instead opt for regular water. While it may not be your child\u2019s favorite option, it is the one that will benefit them most. Not only will water help to keep them hydrated, but it will also flush out any toxins as well as bad bacteria and food particles that may try to stick to their teeth and gums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is also important that the snacks they consume are healthy as well. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy are all great options as opposed to chips, crackers, cookies, and candy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can protect their smile in other ways including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n