Water And Milk Best For Kids

Parents concerned about the recent news story revealing that many children’s juices contain at least six teaspoons of sugar have been advised to give their young ones water and milk instead. Always giving them fruit juice at the dinner table could mean more visits to the emergency dentist in Manchester city centre in the future.

Dr Nigel Carter OBE, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, observed that while juices can be a good way of encouraging people to eat more fruit, the level of acids and sugar means they can do a lot of damage if consumed throughout the day. Where smoothies are concerned, the sticky consistency means that sugar gets stuck to teeth and is in contact with them for longer.

“Water and milk are the best drinks you can give [kids]. Remember it is how often children have sugary foods and drinks that causes the problem,” he remarked, adding that it is also important to brush your teeth just before going to bed using a fluoride toothpaste and to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

Guidelines were released last month (October) by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence to help nurseries and schools teach youngsters how best to brush their teeth. Schools are now being encouraged to supervise those aged between three and 11 years old while they brush, making sure they do it for two minutes twice a day.

Pupils in disadvantaged areas of England are also to be given a toothbrush and some toothpaste to take home with them.