The same principles apply to children as with adults. Drinks of water and milk are ideal for children as they reduce the acids on the teeth.

Foods to Avoid

Acidic, sticky and sweet.

  • Fruit juices
  • Flavoured milk
  • Sports drinks
  • Sweetened cereals
  • Dried fruit bars, muesli bars
  • Jam
  • Sweet biscuits
  • Lollies- including natural snakes
  • Cordials
  • Soft drinks (including sugar free)
  • Dried fruit (sultanas, apricots)
  • Honey
  • Cake

Eating fruit between meals can also be harmful to the teeth due to the acids and sugars in fruits. If they are having a fruit snack, follow up with a small piece of cheese or a drink of milk or water.

Tooth Friendly Snacks

  • Dry biscuits (crackers)
  • Popcorn
  • Nuts
  • Sushi
  • Cut-up vegetables with dips such as tzatziki or hummus
  • Sliced ham, salmon or turkey
  • Plain rice cakes
  • Cheese slices

Children should brush their teeth twice a day, after breakfast and before going to bed at night. Until about 7 years of age, children should be helped to clean their teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste (a pea sized ball of low fluoride toothpaste for children under 7 years). No rinsing is required with the toothpaste spat out.