Quick answer
Cheese, plain yogurt, eggs, crunchy vegetables and nuts are kind to teeth; dried fruit, sweetened drinks and sticky snacks are the ones to limit. The chart below sorts common snacks into best, sometimes, and limit — and check with your doctor or dietitian before changing your child's diet.
Support healthy teeth with smart snack choices!
(Always consult your doctor or dietitian before making dietary changes.)
Snacks by type
| Snack Type | Best for Teeth | Okay Sometimes | Limit or Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fruits | Fresh apples, pears, melons | Bananas, grapes (in moderation) | Dried fruits (raisins, fruit snacks) |
| Vegetables | Carrots, celery, cucumbers | Cooked veggies with sauces | Pickled vegetables (vinegar = acid) |
| Proteins | Eggs, turkey, chicken, tofu | Nut butters (no sugar added) | Jerky with added sugars or spices |
| Dairy | Cheese, plain yogurt | Flavored yogurt (low sugar) | Sweetened milk, chocolate milk |
| Grains | Whole grain crackers, rice | Whole grain bread | Sugary cereals, cookies, pastries |
| Snacks & Treats | Nuts, popcorn (age-appropriate) | Chips (occasionally) | Candy, soda, juice boxes |
Tips:
- Stick to mealtimes for sweet or sticky treats to reduce acid exposure.
- Water is best! Avoid juice and sports drinks between meals.
- Get plenty of Vitamin D (like from eggs and sunlight!) to support healthy enamel.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste!
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Carole Miyahara DDS
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Book onlineSouth Berkeley · (510) 848-6494North Berkeley · (510) 528-1546Orinda · (925) 253-8190This guide is general information for parents, not dental advice for a specific child. If you're worried about your child's teeth, call us.
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