Why Is Milk Good for Your Child’s Teeth?

During the first five years of life, children are on a path of learning what, when and how much to eat and drink. Considering the fact that they are quite impressionable at that age, it is the right time for parents to focus on healthy eating habits.

Calcium is one of the most important nutrients for healthy teeth. It strengthens the enamel, the hard-exterior shell of the tooth, which defends teeth against cavities and erosion. Milk contains calcium, proteins and is low in sugar.

Dental erosion is most common between the age of 5 to 7. Once the tooth starts to wear, the effect is irreversible. However, we can certainly prevent, reduce and manage the damage. Parents can incorporate not only milk, but also cheese and yoghurt into their child’s meals to help ensure that they are obtaining the right amount of calcium.

Milk and yoghurt based products tend to have a protective effect on erosion. This is largely due to their calcium and phosphate content.

According to the American Dental Association, milk and yogurt based products tend to have a protective effect on erosion. This is largely due to their calcium and phosphate content.

If your child is lactose intolerant, you can still provide him with a diet that is rich in calcium. You can do this with these seven non-dairy products:

1. orange juice with added calcium
2. tofu with added calcium
3. canned sardines and salmon (Including the bones, as it contains most of the calcium)
4. soybeans/white beans/kidney beans
5. almonds
6. kale or spinach
7. soymilk

When you teach your children healthy living habits, it can lead to a healthy set of teeth and gums. The first step is to make them conscious of what they are eating and drinking. By setting a balanced diet and limiting snacks between meals at a young age, you can help influence their future weight and overall health.

With regular visits to a pediatric dentist, you can work together to help prevent your child from having oral hygiene issues. It is usually easy to treat the oral problem if it is spotted early on.