Ep. 21 Snacks on the Trail with Dr. Ashley Toporowski

Continual snacking, which Dr. Ashley calls “grazing,” increases the chance of cavities, so she suggests sticking to somewhat of a “scheduled” snack schedule, especially on adventures! 

 

Best Foods for Teeth: 

• Cheese 
• Raw Vegetables 
• Nuts 
• Eggs 
• Fruits 
• Crunchy foods (ie. apples) 

 

Foods that Increase Chances of Cavities: 

• Foods high in sugar 
• Foods high in carbs 
• Sticky foods (ie. crackers, that get stuck in teeth) 
• If you’re going to eat chocolate, chocolate over 70% cocoa is best for teeth (still in moderation) 

 

This doesn’t mean not to have any of the “foods that increase chances of cavities”; it just means balancing those foods with foods that are good for your teeth! Also, after eating, drink water to wash away the excess food and sugars.  

 

Another tip: Chewing xylitol gum or sugar-free gum after eating can help, because it promotes the saliva in your mouth, allowing the mouth to repair the enamel.  

 

Drinking: 

• On adventures with kids, bring a straw cup!  
• Kids need water after age 1.  
• Before age 1, water is just for practice, as you do not want water to displace a breastmilk or formula feed.  

 

Book Recommendation: Big Steps - We’re Going to the Dentist  

 

*Reminder: Children should visit the dentist for the first time at 1-year-old, or 6 months after first tooth erupts* 

 

Follow Dr. Ashley at: IG: @drashleytop 

 

Thank you to Bloom Nutrition for supporting today’s podcast! Find them on IG: @yourbloomnutrition or at www.yourbloomnutrition.com 

 

Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music.