How Does Juice Affect Children’s Teeth?

Children love juice! Whether they crave orange juice, grape juice, apple juice, or a fruity cocktail, they are always happy to enjoy a sweet and refreshing beverage. Plus, many parents are happy to give juice to their kids because it can have some important nutrients, including vitamin C. But how does juice affect children’s teeth? This blog post contains some important information.

What Is Wrong with Fruit Juice?

Sugar is bad for teeth because it interacts with oral bacteria, leading to the formation of plaque. Eventually, plaque contributes to cavities. Unfortunately, fruit juices are one of many beverages that are notorious for being high in sugar. In some cases, juice can have just as much sugar as a can of soda! Regularly allowing your children to consume juice could easily lead to spots of decay in their smile.

It is not just the sugar in fruit juices that is problematic. Many of them contain quite a bit of acid. Exposure to acid can weaken the enamel, causing it to erode over time. Overconsumption of juice can lead to significant dental sensitivity.

Is Fruit Juice Always Bad?

Does the above information mean that you should never let your child enjoy juice or other beverages that contain sugar? Not necessarily. Here are a few tips that may allow your little one to drink juice with minimal effects on their oral health:

• Do not give juice to your child if they are under 1 year old. (This is a recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics.)
• Favor whole fruit juices over highly processed ones.
• Choose natural juices that do not have any added sugar.
• Do not let your child sip on juice (or any beverage with sugar or acid in it) multiple times throughout the day; that would increase the length of time their teeth are exposed to sugar and acid. Instead, try giving them a small glass of juice with one of their meals. Have them finish it before they leave the table. Afterward, encourage them to sip on some water.

Which Beverages Are Safe for Kids’ Teeth?

Ideally, you should try to help your child develop a taste for plain water, which is beneficial for teeth. Giving them their own water bottle may help them develop some enthusiasm for staying hydrated throughout the day!

Other beverages that can be safe for children’s teeth include:

• Milk. Dairy milk is best for teeth because it contains calcium and other beneficial nutrients. Other types of milk, such as almond milk and oat milk, can be acceptable as well if they do not contain added sugar. (Of course, it must be acknowledged that milk naturally has some sugar, so it should not be sipped repeatedly throughout the day. A glass of milk at mealtimes is fine, though.)
• Tea. Caffeine-free herbal and fruity teas can be naturally sweet. They may also contain antioxidants that support oral health.

Juice is tasty and refreshing, but it can spell trouble for your child’s smile! Encourage them to make smart beverage choices so their teeth can stay strong and healthy.

Meet the Doctors

Our practice is proud to be home to four amazing pediatric dentists

• Dr. Sonia Guiterrez, our wonderful practice owner.
• Dr. Dave Rutcosky, who has been a member of our team for 25 years.
• Dr. Ashley Compton, who has been with us for 8 years.
• Dr. Sahar Alrayyes, who has served with us for 16 years.

They are all passionate about providing top-quality care to young smiles! If you have questions about how our team may be able to help you get your child’s oral health off to the best start in life, contact our Grayslake, IL, office at 847-223-1400.