Dr. Azin Tarifard, a pediatric dentist at Babylon Dental Care, stated that parents may not realize how susceptible their children are to common issues like cavities, which can be prevented with a healthy diet.
“Incredibly, cavities are one of the most common issues affecting children, but they can often be prevented with a healthy diet,” said Tarifard. “Parents often let their children go to bed with milk or juice, but this can lead to cavities. Sugary drinks like apple juice, sticky gummies, and hard candies are harmful because they stick to teeth and cause cavities. Healthier options like vegetables, cheese, and water can help prevent cavities and protect children’s teeth.”
According to the American Dental Association, a healthy diet is crucial for maintaining strong teeth and preventing cavities in children. The foods and beverages children consume play a significant role in oral health, as certain items can promote the growth of harmful bacteria that lead to tooth decay. Limiting sugary snacks and beverages can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in children. Encouraging good dietary habits from an early age is essential for long-term dental health.
Tarifard emphasized that early oral hygiene combined with a healthy diet is very important. She advises parents to avoid putting children to bed with milk or juice and stresses the need to start brushing as soon as the first teeth emerge. “The earlier you start brushing and flossing, the less chance of having cavities between teeth. Baby teeth are softer, more prone to cavities, so staying on top of oral hygiene is key,” she said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), consuming sugary snacks and drinks frequently throughout the day increases the risk of tooth decay, making it crucial to limit such items and opt for healthier alternatives.
Tarifard noted that certain snacks are more harmful than others. She recommends avoiding sticky gummies and hard candies, which can cling to teeth and promote cavities. “We often suggest parents offer softer chocolates over sticky candies, and incorporate healthier snacks like vegetables, cheese, and water to help protect children’s teeth,” she said. Making these dietary adjustments can make a significant difference in preventing cavities and maintaining healthy smiles.
Dr. Azin Tarifard is a board-certified pediatric dentist with over a decade of experience, including specialized care for neurodivergent children and those with disabilities. According to the Babylon Dental Care website, Dr. Tarifard brings a compassionate and skilled approach to pediatric dentistry. Her passion for working with children, inspired by her family’s dental tradition, makes her a perfect fit for the practice.
