Fruit juice is one of the most popular drinks around, and whether it’s orange juice, apple juice or any other type of variant, the beverage is enjoyed all over by people of all ages—especially kids! But it’s no surprise that due to how sweet and acidic some of these drinks are, they have the potential to harm your little one’s smile. Here’s a little more from your pediatric dentist about why juice isn’t always the best option for your child, along with some healthier alternatives and tips to support their oral health.
The Problem Fruit Juice Presents for Your Child’s Oral Health
Many parents give their child fruit juice because they assume it’s a healthy and sensible option; after all, it is made from fruit most of the time! But did you know that many fruit juices have a large amount of added sugars, sometimes as much as soda? Given that children are extra susceptible to tooth decay and cavities, this is highly problematic.
But it isn’t just the high sugar and acid content present in fruit juice that poses an issue; it’s also the frequent contact between the juice and your child’s teeth. If your child is drinking juice all day long, they’re constantly exposing their pearly whites to those harmful particles. Over time, this will erode the protective enamel layer of their teeth and spawn all sorts of nasty oral health issues.
Healthier Alternatives to Fruit Juice
If you can, you should encourage your little one to enjoy other beverages; in fact, there are many options that are undeniably better for their oral health than most fruit juices! Consider the following:
- Water – Water is by far the best beverage for your oral health for two primary reasons: it assists with clearing away lingering food debris and particles, and it also encourages the mouth to produce saliva, which is crucial in the ongoing fight against cavities. You might even consider diluting fruit juice with water before serving it to your child.
- Cow’s milk – If your little one is old enough, milk is another good option. Milk is an excellent source of calcium, which is important for strong teeth and bones.
- Whole fruit – Opting for whole fruits rather than fruit juice is also preferable; the sugar in a piece of fruit is less concentrated, and the fiber helps to limit contact with the enamel.
It’s also worth mentioning that proactivity can help to mitigate the negative effects of juice on your child’s teeth; excellent oral hygiene coupled with routine dental care will go a very long way towards ensuring that your child’s smile is healthy and bright moving forward.
About the Practice
At Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re passionate about helping younger smiles look and feel great! Our team is pleased to offer a wide range of pediatric services to patients and families in the Nashua, NH community. If you have any questions about the article or you’d like to schedule a visit for your child, you can contact us online or by phone at (603) 880-5002.