Geerthana Uthayakumar Diet along with good oral hygiene are crucial parts of your child’s oral health. Calcium-rich foods are good for bone health, including his/her teeth as they can help strengthen teeth and protect tooth enamel. According to Health Canada, the recommended dietary allowance of calcium for children is 200 – 1300 mg per day, however, this is not always met. Based on food intake data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), almost one-quarter of children aged 4-8, one third of boys aged 9-18 and more than two-thirds of girls aged 9-18 all receive inadequate intakes of calcium.
Fortunately calcium-rich foods include more than just dairy, ensuring that no matter your lifestyle, there are ways to get in the recommended daily intake of calcium. Below are some foods that are great sources of calcium, and are good for bones and teeth when consumed as part of a healthy eating plan:
- Fish with soft bones, such as salmon and sardines.
Dairy Options:
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
Vegan Options:
- Collard greens
- Broccoli
- Kale
- Soy
- Beans
- Almonds
In addition to maintaining a balanced diet, regular dental check-ups are also important in monitoring your child’s teeth, and identifying any problems early on. The Canadian Dental Association recommends children see a dentist within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by their first birthday. Finding a welcoming, and skilled dentist who caters to the needs of children help children to build a positive association with caring for their teeth. I’ve mentioned this before however if you live within or around the GTA, I highly recommend Dr. Vidya Varathan Dental Care for your families. You can read my review here.
