• Remember the sticky and sweet rule -- if it’s sticky and it’s sweet, it’s likely bad for teeth. Both juice and raisins are trouble because they’re acidic and high in sugar, says Dr. Henson. Try to make sure your child brushes well immediately after eating these foods.
• Saliva-producing foods such as crunchy vegetables or even sugarless gum are good anti-cavity choices.
• Your dentist may suggest a fluoride rinse. It works like a mouthwash rinse, says Dr. Henson, and helps protect the teeth and fight off decay.
• Your dentist may also recommend a sealant. “It’s a plastic material we apply to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, where the deep pits and grooves are. It basically closes those off and prevents bacterial colonization and cavities,” says Dr. Henson.
• Don’t share utensils with your kids. “The bacteria in your mouth can move over to the child’s mouth, causing decay,” says Dr. Kowolik.

Find more info on kids health, including snacks that won’t rot their teeth and a take-along safety kit.