Water is the BEST drink for everyone.
It is the best drink to quench a thirst. Tap water is
best for a few reasons. Some bottled water is
actually slightly acidic which can have a bad effect
on teeth. Acid erodes enamel and can cause
decay. Bottled water does not contain any fluoride.
In most of Australia, tap water contains fluoride
which helps children to develop strong teeth.
DO NOT add fruit, especially citrus fruit, to the water. This will immediately turn the water acid and this is not healthy for teeth.
Fruit Juice of any type is not a good drink to provide for your children.
Fruit juice is HIGH in natural sugar and can also contain added sugar. Eating a piece of fruit is always better than having a glass of juice. Children DO NOT need any fruit juice AT ALL.
Other drinks that will cause decay in your child's teeth are
Soft Drinks (including soda water and mineral water), sports drinks, and cordials.
If you do give your child juice, soft drink, sports drinks or cordials try to reduce the intake until they are not having any of these decay causing drinks at all. These drinks typically contain high sugar and acid levels which will damage teeth quickly over time.
Ideas to help with reducing and stopping these types of drinks include:
Serving the drink in a smaller cup which reduces the amount.
Limit the number of cups of sweet drinks per day.
Over time, water down the the drinks until they are very diluted and then completely replace them with water.
Milk is another healthy option drink but NOT directly before bedtime. Milk helps your child to develop strong teeth and bones.
Ideas to encourage your child to drink more water
Use a re-fillable water bottle when ever you go out.
Keep water in the fridge at home.
Offer and serve water for everyone with the family meal.
Show your child you enjoy drinking water.
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