5 Risky Habits and 5 Healthy Alternatives for Children's Dental Health

With the arrival of warmer weather and the start of school holidays, children's favorite season has begun. Pediatric Dentist Dt. Nurgül Demir, who has issued important warnings to prevent the pleasant hours spent at the seaside, pools and playgrounds from threatening dental health, drew attention to certain foods frequently consumed especially in summer months and offered healthy recommendations that will make life easier for both children and parents. Dt. Nurgül Demir lists the 5 most common indulgences that put children's dental health at risk during summer holidays, along with 5 healthy alternatives that can replace them, as follows: 1-Ice Cream "Many ice creams sold on the market contain refined sugar and, due to their sticky texture, adhere to the tooth surface and increase the risk of decay. Crunchy, caramelized pieces in particular pose a threat to teeth." Recommendation: "Ice creams with natural ingredients, no additives and a properly maintained cold chain can be a healthier alternative thanks to their calcium and protein content. Homemade plain ice cream or ice cream prepared with seasonal fruits can also be preferred. It's best not to exceed 2 scoops a day." 2. Iced and Sugary Drinks "Drinks such as milkshakes, frozen beverages and bubble tea contain high levels of sugar. Starch-based sweeteners in particular significantly increase the risk of decay." Recommendation: "Smoothies prepared at home with seasonal fruits and no added sugar neither harm dental health nor support children's immunity." 3. Ready-Made Fruit Milk and Yogurt "Fruit milk and yogurt products offered on supermarket shelves in attractive packaging contain high levels of sugar. This sugar turns into acid on the tooth surface, leading to the formation of cavities." Recommendation: "Milk and yogurt mixtures prepared at home with seasonal fruits are much healthier options since they contain no added sugar." 4. Acidic and Carbonated Drinks "The acid and high sugar content in acidic drinks can damage tooth enamel and rapidly accelerate the progression of cavities." Recommendation: "Probiotic sources such as natural kefir and yogurt balance the oral flora and prevent the formation of cavities. Especially on hot days, kefir and ayran are both refreshing and healthy alternatives." 5. Ready-Made Fruit Juices and Energy Drinks "These drinks generally contain high levels of sugar and provide a rich food source for decay-causing bacteria." Recommendation: "Homemade lemonades naturally sweetened with honey, dates or dried apricots both appeal to children and offer a healthy alternative." "Even when healthy, the mouth should always be rinsed with water after consumption" Dt. Nurgül Demir, noting that "Seasonal fruits and dried fruits also contain natural sugar and can threaten dental health when consumed in excess. Whether healthy alternatives such as ice cream or smoothies are preferred throughout the summer, the mouth should be rinsed with plenty of water after every consumption. This way, both the formation of cavities is prevented and the enjoyment of summer is preserved along with health," warned families to make conscious choices.

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