Beware of These "Healthy" Snacks That Are Bad for Teeth

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

When you reach for a healthy snack, you probably think about the fat content, calories, and nutritional value.  However, many of the snacks that we consider healthy are actually bad for your teeth.  Here are a few “healthy” snacks that can be bad for your smile.

Beware of these “healthy” snacks:

• Smoothies and Fruit Juices – While they contain a lot of vitamins, these drinks can also be very high in sugar and acid.  Some contain more sugar than soda!  If you give fruit juice to your kids, dilute the juice and only offer it during meals. 
• Dried Fruit – Although natural sugars are better for you than refined sugar, they can still cause tooth decay if snacked on frequently.  Whether you are snacking on raisins or caramels, these sugary and sticky snacks can cling to your teeth for a long time.  Try fresh fruit or vegetable sticks instead!
• Cereal Bars – Many cereals contain a lot of sugar to boost the flavor.  Remember to read your labels!
• Yogurt – Many flavored yogurts are low in fat, but contain a lot of sugar.  Add fresh fruit to low fat natural or Greek yogurt to add flavor instead.

Read more about bad snacking habits on MSN. 

Contact Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove for more healthy smile tips or to schedule your child’s bi-annual cleaning and exam.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.