Sticky snacks that stick on teeth also cause cavities. Chewing gum and chewy candies are never recommended. Children should brush their teeth or rinse their mouths after eating some otherwise healthy snacks like raisins and dried fruit. Apples, on the other hand, act like a toothbrush, cleaning food from teeth. Fear of dentists is not unusual in young children.
Providers can help children see that dentists are helpers.
Talk with them about going to the dentist in a calm, factual, and unafraid manner. Some county dental associations have promotional materials. Check with your dentist to see what is available in your area. Encourage children to brush their teeth. But you should supervise closely and teach them the correct way to do it.