Most kids love candy, cookies, and other sugary treats. While the occasional treat is acceptable, sweet treats increase tooth decay and gingivitis risk. Make sure to stock up on these healthy and teeth-friendly snack options to prevent cavities, dental caries, and other oral health issues.

Healthy Snack Ideas

An adequate nutrition consisting of the proper intake of nutrients is essential to keeping the teeth of your child healthy. Include foods high in sugar, but low in calcium, the most important nutrient for strong teeth now and as they grow. 

The following foods can be combined for a satisfying snack, a small snack or a nutritious meal:

• String cheeses or cheese slices
• Fruits mixed with low-fat, low-sugar yogurt
• Crunchy vegetables with nuts or nut butter

Cheese is an excellent snack option, and with such a wide variety of products to choose, finding one that your child enjoys should be easy!
String cheese works well for lunch boxes and snacks on the go. String cheese is an excellent snack option, and with such a wide variety of products to choose, finding one that your child enjoys should be easy!

One more cheese perk? It neutralizes the acid and helps prevent tooth decay. By controlling the calorie and saturated fat intake of your child, keep low-fat versions when possible.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are also great healthy snacks for kids:

• Many dark-green, leafy vegetables are high in calcium. Serving fresh fruit with low-sugar yogurt to increase calcium content of the snack.
• Raw vegetables pair well by themselves or with a dip or nut butter your child likes.
• Veggies with a small serving of nuts like almonds or cashews make a more filling snack.
• Nuts and nut butter are packed with healthy fats – purchase no added sugar options.

Tips for Healthy Teeth

Candy, soda and prepared desserts should be avoided as they are high in sugar and low in calcium or other essential nutrients. When bacteria feed sugars, they leave behind an acidic byproduct that can wear your child's enamel for at least two minutes a day. Every day you can help them clean between their teeth with floss, flossers or interdental cleaners.

Selecting good snacks for children can be an adjustment, but the dental and whole body health benefits are well worth it. Instead of cookies, chips or candy, stock up on fruits, vegetables, cheeses and nuts to ensure your whole family makes the healthy choice at snack time.