If you’re wondering how to boost your child’s calcium intake, here are the best foods, simple tips, and dentist-approved guidance to keep their smile strong and healthy.

Why Calcium Matters for Your Child’s Teeth

Calcium is essential for:

• Building strong tooth enamel

• Strengthening developing teeth

• Protecting teeth from decay

• Supporting jawbone growth

Kids dentistry experts in Sedona, AZ often see cavities that could be prevented with better nutrition—especially with more calcium.

Top Calcium-Rich Foods for Kids

1. Dairy Favorites

These classics are kid-friendly and packed with calcium:

• Milk

• Cheese

• Yogurt

Tip: Choose low-sugar yogurt and offer cheese sticks as an easy on-the-go snack.

2. Leafy Greens

Even if your child isn’t a big fan, greens are powerful!

• Spinach

• Kale

• Bok choy

Try blending greens into smoothies or mixing them into pasta sauce so they're harder to detect.

3. Fortified Foods

Many packaged foods are enriched with extra calcium:

• Fortified orange juice

• Cereal

• Oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk

Great for kids who are dairy-free or lactose-intolerant.

4. Nuts and Seeds

Crunchy and nutritious, these make great lunchbox additions:

• Almonds

• Chia seeds

• Sesame seeds

Try adding chia seeds to smoothies or yogurt bowls for an extra boost.

5. Fish with Soft Bones

It may sound surprising, but fish like sardines and salmon (with bones) are excellent calcium sources.For kids, try mashing them into patties or mixing with pasta.

How Much Calcium Do Kids Need?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Ages 4–8: about 1,000 mg per day

• Ages 9–13: about 1,300 mg per day

If you’re unsure whether your child is meeting their daily needs, our kids dentistry team in Sedona, AZ can help evaluate their habits and offer personalized guidance.

Easy Ways to Add More Calcium to Your Child’s Day

• Add cheese to sandwiches or veggies

• Offer smoothies made with fortified milk

• Serve yogurt as an afternoon snack

• Add sesame seeds to salads or rice

• Choose calcium-fortified cereals for breakfast

  
  

Don’t Forget Vitamin D!

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Make sure your child gets enough sunlight and include foods like:

• Eggs

• Fortified milk

• Salmon

  
  

Strong Teeth Start with Healthy Habits

Good nutrition strengthens your child’s enamel from the inside out. Combined with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, calcium does wonders for keeping young smiles bright and cavity-free.

If you’d like more personalized tips, or if your child is due for an appointment, Sedona Molar Kids is here to support your family every step of the way.