Indulging in Healthy Foods for Better Dental Health

Feeding your kids can be difficult. They are usually picky with their food usually preferring junk food over the healthy food that they should be eating. Try bringing them to the grocery store and you'll see them grabbing the sugary and starchy items instead of apples and oranges. This can be a disaster for children's health; not to mention, their dental health.

You see, eating right is a huge factor in having a healthy set of teeth and bones particularly those foods containing calcium and other nutrients.

However, peer pressure, coming from friends and classmates, isn't helping the cause of healthy eating. Picture this: You pack your child a healthy and delicious meal for lunch at school. But what your child sees peers eating can influence the way he or she eats. While your child takes a bite from an apple, the classmate is munching on junk food. Most likely, your child will drop the apple and feast on the classmate's sugary food. What's a parent to do?

Dr. Courtney Chinn, DDS, MPH, of the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine acknowledges this predicament and stresses the fact that healthy food choices can have a significant effect on a child's overall health, which includes the teeth and gums.

Dr. Chinn advises parents to keep kids away from snacks that stick to the teeth, which causes tooth decay and cavities. Sugary drinks should be minimized; milk and water are highly recommended. Stash only fruits and veggies at home so your child will be motivated to eat healthy foods only.

Our Services

Bernard L. Hoffman, III, DDS

General, Implant and Restorative Dentistry

My father was a dentist and I enjoyed the lifestyle that dentistry provided me as a child. I enjoy the fact that dentistry is such a challenge...

Ana Paula Hoffman, DDS, MSc, PhD

General, Children and Cosmetic Dentistry

I always liked the medical field, but I didn't want to be a physician. Dentistry was the right profession, where I could help patients, providing them...

Patient Reviews

I wished I had tried this dentist office sooner. Everyone there are very professional and knowledgeable. I was looking for a new dentist and I found Dr. Ana and I could not be more satisfied. My confidence in her was well placed. I would hope that every dentist was this good. I had a problem with my teeth for awhile. Two others dentists did not mention it to me but she was able to see what my problem was right away. It is now fixed and I couldn’t be more pleased with the work she did.

Dr. Ana is a fabulous dentist. Recently I had extensive dental work on my front teeth. Prior to the start of work she took an impression and made a temporary piece that looked natural. I am extremely happy with the final result. She is meticulous and caring, a great combination. The office staff is professional and courteous. I have been a patient at Pennington Family Dentistry for over 30 years.

Great staff! Been here a couple times already and they are efficient and they take the time to get to know you. Spent years in a large practice before this but never got that personal experience you want with a doctor or dentist. Would highly recommend this practice.

Professional friendly staff. Always feel comfortable and welcomed here. Dr. Bernie treat patients with attentive care and respect. Michele is so helpful and kind. Charissa is the best hygienist and her injections are the least painful ever.

I have been a patient of Pennington Family Dentistry for over 40 years and cannot say enough complimentary things about the professionalism of the entire staff. From the front desk to the hygienist to the doctors, each delivers superb and comfortable care. I highly recommend PFD to all those who seek dental care.

My wife and I have each visited PFD several times now, and we both have been consistently impressed with each of the staff, who have all been very friendly, knowledgeable and thorough.

View All Reviews