6th March 2023
Keeping Teeth healthy at Easter!
A Healthy Smile: Practical Tips for Parents This Easter
Easter is a time of joy and celebration, and for many families, it involves a generous amount of chocolate treats. While indulging in these sweet delights can be enjoyable, it’s essential to remember the impact that excessive sugar intake can have on your children’s oral health. In this blog post, we’ll provide practical advice for parents on how to maintain healthy teeth and manage sugar intake during the Easter season.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that both adults and children should limit their intake of free sugars to less than 10% of their total daily caloric intake. Free sugars include all sugars added to foods and beverages, as well as sugars naturally present in honey, syrups, fruit juices, and fruit juice concentrates. For an even greater health benefit, the WHO suggests reducing this number to below 5%. For a child on a 1,800-calorie diet, this equates to no more than 45 grams (or around 11 teaspoons) of sugar per day at the 10% level, and around 23 grams (or roughly six teaspoons) at the 5% level. By being mindful of your child’s sugar intake and providing healthier alternatives, you can help them maintain better overall health and prevent potential issues related to excessive sugar consumption, such as tooth decay, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
A Cadbury’s Creme Egg, contains approximately 26 grams (around 6.5 teaspoons) of sugar. This is a significant amount, especially for children, as it represents more than half of the World Health Organization’s recommended daily sugar intake of less than 10% of total daily calories. To maintain a balanced diet and protect your child’s oral health, it’s essential to limit the consumption of such sugary treats and encourage moderation during the Easter season.
Set limits on chocolate consumption
Instead of allowing your children to indulge in an unlimited amount of chocolate, set a reasonable limit to help control their sugar intake. Moderation is key, so consider allowing them one or two small treats a day during the Easter period. This will help them enjoy the festive season without overindulging in sugar.
Offer healthier alternatives
Incorporate healthier alternatives to chocolate in your Easter celebrations. You can get creative with fruit-based snacks or sugar-free candies, which are both delicious and better for your children’s teeth. This way, your kids will still enjoy tasty treats while reducing their overall sugar consumption.
Encourage regular brushing
Remind your children to brush their teeth at least twice a day, especially after consuming sugary treats. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste will help remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. Make sure your child is using a toothbrush with soft bristles and that they are brushing for at least two minutes each time.
Don't forget to floss
Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health, as it helps remove food particles and plaque that can build up between teeth. Encourage your children to floss daily, ideally before bedtime, to ensure they’re removing any remaining chocolate or sugar from their teeth.
Rinse with water after consuming chocolate
Have your child rinse their mouth with water after eating chocolate to help wash away some of the sugar and prevent it from sticking to their teeth. This simple habit can make a significant difference in protecting their teeth from the harmful effects of sugar.
Schedule a dental check-up
Easter is an excellent time to schedule a dental check-up for your child. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor your child’s oral health, provide professional cleanings, and address any issues early on. If your child hasn’t had a check-up recently, consider making an appointment to ensure their teeth remain healthy.
Educate your children about oral health
Take this opportunity to educate your children about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and the impact of sugar on their teeth. By teaching them about the consequences of excessive sugar intake and the benefits of proper dental care, you can empower them to make better choices for their oral health.
This Easter, take the necessary steps to protect your children’s teeth and maintain a healthy smile. By setting limits on chocolate consumption, offering healthier alternatives, and encouraging good oral hygiene habits, you can ensure that your kids enjoy the festive season without compromising their oral health. Make it a memorable Easter with the right balance of fun and dental care!
