Your child may be a ‘chip off the old block’ but that doesn’t mean you want them to chip their teeth! Unfortunately, however, there are some foods that your kids may love that can do just that. If you’re worried about dental damage, protect their tiny teeth by avoiding these smile saboteurs!
Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a great way to get protein and stick to a low carbohydrate diet, however it can be very tough to chew. While beef in itself isn’t a bad choice, this particular preparation can put your child’s teeth at risk. Thus, if you do choose to serve this snack, look for soft varieties, or swap it for a different preparation such as grilled fajita-style strips instead.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a summer staple that’s both good and good for you. But biting it off the cob can be a challenge for kids’ teeth. Still, don’t skip out on this versatile veggie: just cut it off the cob before serving so your child can still savor all that sweetness without putting their oral health in danger!
Cherries, Peaches, and Olives
Though delicious, if you’re not careful these fruits and veggies can really be the ‘pits.’ That’s because it can be easy for kids to forget that there’s a big seed in the center and bite down a bit too hard. Even pitted olives can sometimes miss a pit or two, so if you do make these foods available, either check for them and remove any missed pits, or slice them up prior to serving.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a healthy way to get protein and beneficial fats, but they can often be too crunchy for children. If you still want to serve them, consider blending them and making your own homemade nut butter, or buy a premade variety at the store.
Crusty Breads
Nothing complements a meal quite like a big slice of warm, crusty bread. Unfortunately, however, this can be tough for kids to tear into with their teeth, so stick to softer varieties that are more kid friendly to keep those choppers from chipping.
Hard Candy
While some food preparations may make certain things easier to chew, there are some foods that are best left on the supermarket shelves, such as hard candies. These sweet treats are notoriously difficult for kids because they instinctively want to crunch them instead of letting them dissolve. Unfortunately, this can put their teeth at risk for chips or cracks. They can also be a choking hazard, especially for children under the age of three.
Remember, keeping your kids’ teeth safe doesn’t have to mean passing on all the foods you love. With smart swaps and a little culinary creativity, you can find a way to enjoy all that nature has to offer without putting their smiles at risk!
About Dr. Kim
Dr. Sara (Yun Ae) Kim loves working with kids. Her calm demeanor and minimalist approach help each of her young patients feel safe and secure, making it much easier for them to feel good about caring for their teeth and visiting the dentist!
If your child has a dental emergency, Maine Pediatric Dentistry can help. To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us today at 207-245-7195.