WHAT IS A BALANCED DIET AND WHY DOES MY CHILD NEED IT?
A balanced diet is one that includes an adequate amount of the four basic food groups (carbohydrates, proteins, fats, water). It is important for general health and for the health of the oral tissues. During the years when the teeth are being formed (5 months before birth to the age of 8 years) an adequate supply of calcium and phosphorus is necessary for the formation and hardening (calcification) of the tooth structure. After the teeth are fully formed and calcified, additional calcium is not required. However, the bones and gums of the jaws, like other parts of the body, must be adequately nourished through a balanced diet throughout life. Thus, a diet adequate for general health is adequate for dental health. Further, the big advantage of a balanced diet is that it satisfies the child’s appetite and reduces his desire for in-between meal snacks.
