Why Skipping Breakfast is Bad for the Teeth

Breakfast is often said to be the most important meal of the day, but a recent study indicates that it may be just as good for your smile as it is for your body. According to the study, published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, children who skipped breakfast were 250 percent more likely to have cavities.

The study included about 4,000 children between the ages of two and five. Even children who ate sugary breakfast cereals were at a lower risk of tooth decay in comparison to children who ate no breakfast at all. A healthy breakfast has been linked to a lower risk of obesity, also. Teens that regularly eat breakfast smoke and drink less frequently, as well. This study shows that breakfast also has a protective effect on teeth.

While children are just as susceptible to our busy lifestyles as adults are, there are still plenty of child-friendly grab-and-go breakfast options, including:

• Whole grain waffles, pancakes and muffins

• English muffins topped with eggs or cheese

• Yogurt with fruit, nuts or granola

• Fruit smoothies made with Greek yogurt and fresh or frozen fruit

• Oatmeal

• Whole grain wraps stuffed with eggs and cheese

• Cottage cheese with fresh fruit

• Single serving containers of cereal

• Trail mix made with dried fruits, nuts and dry cereal

Add low-fat milk for a healthy dose of calcium, vitamin D and protein. Also, add some fresh fruit for added fiber. Call us today to learn more about how a healthy diet can improve your smile or to schedule an appointment with our Dentist.