Say No to Candy! – Dr. Yasmin Kottait Pediatric Dentist in Dubai

In a world where sugary treats are readily available at every corner store, school canteen, and family celebration, teaching children to limit their sugar intake has become one of the greatest challenges facing parents today. As a pediatric dentist serving families throughout Dubai and the UAE, I witness daily the devastating effects that excessive sugar consumption has on children’s dental health. From the youngest toddlers presenting with early childhood caries to teenagers with mouths full of cavities, the consequences of our sugar-laden modern diet are clear and concerning. At myPediaClinic, we are committed not only to treating dental problems but also to educating families about prevention, and understanding the harmful effects of sugar is fundamental to protecting your child’s oral health.

The relationship between sugar and tooth decay is well-established and direct. Every time your child consumes sugar, bacteria in their mouth feast on these sugars and produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Repeated acid attacks lead to demineralization of the enamel, eventually creating cavities that require dental treatment to repair. But the effects of excessive sugar consumption extend far beyond cavities. Sugar can affect your child’s appetite for nutritious foods, contribute to obesity and related health problems, and even create addictive patterns of eating that are difficult to break. This comprehensive guide will explore how sugar harms children’s teeth, the broader health implications of excessive sugar intake, practical strategies for reducing sugar in your child’s diet, healthy alternatives that satisfy sweet cravings, and how to teach children to make wise choices about the foods they eat. Armed with this knowledge, you can take meaningful steps to protect your child’s smile and overall health.

Understanding How Sugar Damages Children’s Teeth

To effectively combat the harmful effects of sugar, it is essential to understand the biological process by which sugar causes tooth decay. This knowledge empowers parents to make informed decisions and helps explain to children why limiting sweets is so important.

The Science of Tooth Decay

The mouth is home to hundreds of species of bacteria, some beneficial and some potentially harmful. Among the most problematic are Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus, bacteria that thrive on sugars. When your child eats sugary foods or drinks sugary beverages, these bacteria rapidly consume the sugars and metabolize them, producing acids as a byproduct. These acids lower the pH in the mouth, creating an acidic environment that attacks the hard outer layer of teeth known as enamel. Enamel, despite being the hardest substance in the human body, is vulnerable to acid dissolution. This process of acid attacking enamel is called demineralization.

The Demineralization and Remineralization Balance

The mouth has natural defense mechanisms that work to repair early damage to enamel. Saliva contains minerals, particularly calcium and phosphate, that can redeposit onto enamel surfaces and repair early demineralization in a process called remineralization. Fluoride, whether from toothpaste, treated water, or professional applications, enhances this remineralization process. However, when acid attacks occur too frequently or for too long, the demineralization outpaces the remineralization, and permanent damage occurs. This is when a cavity forms – a hole in the tooth that cannot heal on its own and requires dental treatment.

Frequency of Sugar Exposure Matters

One of the most important concepts for parents to understand is that the frequency of sugar exposure is often more damaging than the total amount consumed. Each time sugar enters the mouth, an acid attack begins that can last 20-30 minutes or longer. If a child sips on a sugary drink over the course of an hour, they experience prolonged, continuous acid attack. If they eat multiple sweets throughout the day, each instance triggers a new acid attack. In contrast, consuming the same amount of sugar in a single sitting with a meal allows the mouth to recover and remineralize between eating occasions. This is why constant snacking on sugary foods and sipping on sweetened beverages throughout the day is particularly harmful to dental health.

Types of Sugars and Their Effects

All sugars can contribute to tooth decay, but some are more readily used by bacteria than others. Sucrose, or table sugar, is the most cariogenic (cavity-causing) sugar because bacteria can use it to produce not only acid but also a sticky substance called glucan that helps them adhere to teeth and form plaque. Glucose and fructose, found naturally in fruits and also added to many processed foods (often as high fructose corn syrup), are also readily fermented by bacteria. Lactose, the sugar in milk, is less cariogenic but can still contribute to decay. Starches, while not sugars, are broken down by salivary enzymes into sugars and can contribute to decay, especially sticky starches that cling to teeth. Even “natural” sugars like honey, maple syrup, and fruit juice can cause cavities when consumed frequently or in excess.

The Alarming Prevalence of Childhood Tooth Decay

Tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease affecting children worldwide, far more prevalent than asthma or hay fever. Understanding the scope of this problem underscores the importance of prevention efforts.

Global and Regional Statistics

According to the World Health Organization, dental caries affects 60-90% of school-aged children globally. In the UAE, studies have shown high rates of dental decay in children, with some surveys finding that a majority of children have experienced tooth decay by the time they enter school. The prevalence of early childhood caries (decay in children under 6) is particularly concerning, as these young children may require extensive dental treatment and may suffer pain, infection, and impacts on nutrition, speech, and self-esteem. The good news is that tooth decay is largely preventable through proper diet, good oral hygiene, and regular dental care.

Early Childhood Caries: A Growing Concern

Early childhood caries (ECC), sometimes called “baby bottle tooth decay” or “nursing caries,” is a severe form of tooth decay affecting young children. ECC often begins when infants or toddlers are put to bed with a bottle containing milk, formula, juice, or other sweetened liquids. The sugars pool around the teeth during sleep when saliva flow is reduced, leading to rapid and severe decay. ECC can also occur from frequent on-demand breastfeeding through the night in older infants and toddlers, excessive consumption of sugary foods and drinks, and lack of oral hygiene care for young children. ECC can destroy the primary teeth, cause pain and infection, and affect the development of permanent teeth. Prevention begins with proper feeding practices and early establishment of good oral hygiene habits.

The Cost of Untreated Decay

Untreated tooth decay has significant consequences for children. Dental pain can affect a child’s ability to eat, sleep, concentrate in school, and enjoy normal activities. Dental infections can become serious and even life-threatening if they spread. Children with poor dental health may experience embarrassment about their appearance, affecting social interactions and self-esteem. Extensive dental treatment, especially in young children who may require sedation or general anesthesia, carries its own risks and costs. Perhaps most importantly, patterns established in childhood often continue into adulthood – children with high rates of decay in their primary teeth are more likely to have decay in their permanent teeth. Prevention is clearly preferable to treatment on every level.

Beyond Cavities: Sugar’s Broader Impact on Children’s Health

While dental health is the focus of this discussion, it is important to recognize that excessive sugar consumption affects many aspects of children’s health and development.

Sugar and Childhood Obesity

The consumption of added sugars, particularly from sugar-sweetened beverages, is strongly linked to childhood obesity. Sugary drinks provide “empty calories” – energy without nutritional value – and do not produce the same feeling of fullness that solid foods do, leading to overall increased calorie intake. Obesity in childhood is associated with numerous health problems, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease risk factors, joint problems, sleep apnea, and psychological issues such as low self-esteem and depression. Childhood obesity often tracks into adulthood, leading to lifelong health consequences. Reducing sugar intake is a key strategy for preventing obesity and its associated health problems.

Sugar and Children’s Appetite

Excessive sugar consumption can affect children’s appetite and dietary patterns in several ways. Sweet foods are highly palatable and can displace more nutritious foods in the diet. Children who consume a lot of sugary snacks and drinks may be less hungry for balanced meals containing vegetables, proteins, whole grains, and other important nutrients. Over time, a preference for intensely sweet foods can develop, making naturally sweet foods like fruits seem less appealing. Breaking these patterns and retraining the palate to appreciate less sweet foods takes time and consistent effort but is essential for long-term healthy eating.

The Addictive Nature of Sugar

Research suggests that sugar can have addictive properties, activating reward pathways in the brain similar to those activated by addictive substances. This can lead to cravings, difficulty controlling intake, and withdrawal-like symptoms when sugar is reduced. Children may become emotionally attached to sweet foods, using them for comfort or emotional regulation. Understanding that sugar can create strong preferences and cravings helps explain why simply telling children to “eat less candy” is often ineffective. A comprehensive approach that gradually reduces sugar exposure, provides satisfying alternatives, and addresses the emotional aspects of eating is more likely to succeed.

Sugar’s Effect on Behavior and Concentration

Many parents report that their children become hyperactive or have difficulty concentrating after consuming sugary foods. While scientific studies have not consistently confirmed a direct link between sugar and hyperactivity, there are plausible mechanisms by which sugar might affect behavior. Rapid spikes and subsequent crashes in blood sugar can affect energy levels and mood. Sugary foods often replace more nutritious options that support steady energy and optimal brain function. For children with blood sugar regulation issues, the effects may be more pronounced. Regardless of the exact mechanisms, many families find that reducing sugar intake leads to more stable moods and better concentration in their children.

Common Sources of Hidden Sugar in Children’s Diets

While candy and desserts are obvious sources of sugar, many common foods and beverages contain significant amounts of added sugar that parents may not realize. Identifying these hidden sources is essential for effectively reducing your child’s sugar intake.

Beverages: The Primary Culprit

Sugar-sweetened beverages are the single largest source of added sugar in many children’s diets. A single can of soda contains about 39 grams of sugar – more than the recommended daily limit for children. Fruit juices, even those labeled as “100% juice,” contain concentrated sugars without the fiber of whole fruit and should be limited. Sports drinks, energy drinks, sweetened teas, flavored milk, and even some “water enhancers” add significant sugar to children’s intake. Making water the primary beverage, limiting juice, and avoiding soda and other sweetened drinks are among the most impactful changes families can make.

Breakfast Foods

Many breakfast foods marketed to children are extremely high in sugar. Sugary cereals, some of which contain as much sugar as dessert, are a morning staple in many households. Flavored instant oatmeal, breakfast pastries, flavored yogurt, and pancakes or waffles with syrup can all contribute significant sugar early in the day. Starting the day with sugar can lead to energy crashes mid-morning and cravings for more sugar. Choosing breakfast options with protein, fiber, and less added sugar helps provide sustained energy for the school day.

Snack Foods

Snacks are a significant source of sugar for many children. Granola bars, fruit snacks, cookies, crackers, and even some seemingly healthy options like dried fruit or flavored nuts can contain substantial added sugars. Vending machines and convenience stores make sugary snacks readily accessible. Preparing snacks at home from whole foods allows parents to control sugar content. Fresh fruits, vegetables with dip, cheese, nuts (for children old enough to eat them safely), and homemade options are better choices.

Condiments and Sauces

Sugar lurks in many condiments and sauces that parents may not think of as sweet. Ketchup, barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, salad dressings, pasta sauces, and even some savory dips contain added sugars. While the amount per serving may seem small, regular use adds up. Reading labels and choosing low-sugar or no-sugar-added versions when available can help reduce total intake.

Reading Labels: Identifying Sugar

Sugar goes by many names on ingredient labels, making it difficult for parents to identify. Some common names for added sugars include sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, fructose, glucose, dextrose, maltose, honey, molasses, maple syrup, agave nectar, brown rice syrup, cane juice, and fruit juice concentrate. When reading nutrition labels, look at the “Added Sugars” line under Total Sugars to see how much sugar has been added to the product beyond what is naturally present in ingredients like fruit or milk. Compare similar products and choose those with lower added sugar content.

How Much Sugar is Too Much?

Understanding the recommended limits for sugar intake helps parents set appropriate boundaries for their children.

Current Guidelines for Sugar Intake

The World Health Organization and many national health organizations recommend that added sugars (also called “free sugars”) make up less than 10% of total daily energy intake, with further benefits from reducing to below 5%. For children, this translates to approximately 25 grams (about 6 teaspoons) of added sugar per day as a maximum for children ages 2-18, less than 25 grams for younger children, and no added sugar at all for children under 2 years of age. To put this in perspective, a single can of soda exceeds the entire daily limit, and many children consume far more than recommended amounts.

Natural Sugars vs. Added Sugars

It is important to distinguish between natural sugars that occur in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and plain dairy products, and added sugars that are added during processing or preparation. Natural sugars come packaged with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients, and their absorption is slowed by the fiber content of the food. Added sugars provide calories without nutritional benefit. The guidelines for limiting sugar apply primarily to added sugars, though excessive consumption of even natural sugars (such as drinking large amounts of fruit juice) can contribute to dental decay and other health issues.

Practical Ways to Reduce Sugar

Reducing sugar in your family’s diet does not have to happen overnight. Gradual changes are often more sustainable. Start by eliminating the biggest sources of added sugar, particularly sweetened beverages. Reduce the amount of sugar used in home cooking and baking – most recipes work well with 25-50% less sugar. Choose unsweetened versions of foods when available (plain yogurt, unsweetened cereal, etc.) and add a small amount of sweetness yourself if needed. Read labels and compare products, choosing lower-sugar options. Gradually, taste preferences will adjust, and foods will taste sweet enough with less added sugar.

Healthy Alternatives to Sugary Treats

Children naturally enjoy sweet tastes, and completely eliminating sweets from their lives is neither realistic nor necessary. The key is to offer healthier alternatives that satisfy the desire for something sweet without the harmful effects of excessive added sugar.

Fresh Fruits: Nature’s Candy

Fresh fruits are the ideal sweet treat for children. They provide natural sugars along with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The fiber in whole fruit slows the absorption of sugar and promotes feelings of fullness. Make fruit easily accessible and appealing by keeping a bowl of washed fruit on the counter, cutting fruit into fun shapes, or serving with a small amount of yogurt for dipping. In Dubai’s markets, a wonderful variety of tropical and local fruits is available year-round. Help your child explore and enjoy this natural sweetness.

Healthier Snack Options

Many satisfying snacks can replace sugary options. Vegetables with hummus or other dips provide crunch and flavor. Plain yogurt with fresh fruit offers protein along with sweetness. Cheese and whole-grain crackers provide a balanced combination. Nuts and seeds (for children old enough to eat them safely) are nutrient-dense and satisfying. Homemade smoothies with fruit, vegetables, and yogurt can be delicious and nutritious. Popcorn (plain or lightly seasoned) makes a great whole-grain snack. Getting children involved in preparing snacks makes them more likely to enjoy eating them.

Rethinking Desserts and Special Occasions

Desserts and sweets do not need to be completely eliminated but can be approached more thoughtfully. Serve smaller portions of treats. Offer dessert occasionally rather than after every meal. Make homemade desserts with reduced sugar. Consider fruit-based desserts like baked apples, frozen banana “ice cream,” or fruit salad. On special occasions, enjoy treats without guilt, recognizing that occasional indulgence is part of a balanced approach to eating. The goal is not perfection but a overall pattern of healthy eating with reduced sugar.

Sugar-Free Does Not Mean Worry-Free

Parents should be aware that “sugar-free” products are not necessarily a good solution for children. Many sugar-free products contain artificial sweeteners, which may have their own concerns and do not help children develop a preference for less sweet foods. Sugar alcohols (like sorbitol and xylitol) are sometimes used in sugar-free products; while xylitol may have dental benefits, these substances can cause digestive upset when consumed in large amounts. Rather than relying on sugar-free products, focus on whole foods and gradually reducing overall sweetness in the diet.

Teaching Children About Sugar and Dental Health

Education is a powerful tool for helping children make healthy choices. When children understand why limiting sugar is important, they are more likely to cooperate and eventually make good decisions independently.

Age-Appropriate Education

How you explain sugar and dental health should match your child’s developmental level. For young children (ages 2-5), keep it simple: “Sugar bugs like to eat candy, and when they do, they make owies on your teeth. Brushing chases the sugar bugs away.” For school-age children (ages 6-12), you can explain more: “Bacteria in your mouth eat sugar and make acid. The acid makes holes in your teeth called cavities. Limiting sugar and brushing helps protect your teeth.” Teenagers can understand the full picture, including long-term health consequences and the importance of developing healthy habits now that will benefit them throughout life.

Involving Children in Food Choices

Children who are involved in food decisions are more likely to embrace healthy eating. Take your child grocery shopping and discuss food choices, reading labels together. Let them help prepare meals and snacks. Give them choices between healthy options rather than between healthy and unhealthy options. Grow a vegetable or herb garden together if possible. When children feel ownership over their food, they develop a better relationship with healthy eating.

Modeling Healthy Eating Habits

Children learn by watching their parents. If you consume large amounts of sugary foods and drinks, your children are likely to do the same. Model the eating habits you want your children to adopt. Keep healthy foods available at home and limit the presence of sugary foods. Enjoy fruits and vegetables enthusiastically. Let your children see that healthy eating is normal and enjoyable, not a punishment or deprivation.

Avoiding Counterproductive Approaches

Certain approaches to managing children’s sugar intake can backfire. Using sweets as rewards can increase their perceived value and desirability. Completely forbidding sugary foods can make them more attractive and lead to overindulgence when the child has access. Shaming or guilt-tripping children about eating sweets can create unhealthy relationships with food. Instead, aim for a balanced approach where treats are occasional pleasures, not rewards, forbidden fruits, or sources of shame. The goal is to help children develop a healthy, relaxed relationship with all foods, including sweets.

Promoting Good Dental Hygiene to Combat Sugar’s Effects

While reducing sugar intake is the primary preventive strategy, good oral hygiene practices are essential for protecting teeth from decay. When children do consume sugar, proper cleaning helps minimize the damage.

Brushing: The Foundation of Oral Hygiene

Children should brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. For children under 3, use a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. For children 3 to 6, use a pea-sized amount. Parents should supervise and assist with brushing until children have the dexterity to do a thorough job themselves, typically around age 6-7. Pay attention to all surfaces of all teeth, especially the back teeth where decay often begins. Brush for at least two minutes. Electric toothbrushes can be helpful for some children and may make brushing more engaging.

Flossing: Reaching Between Teeth

Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. Begin flossing your child’s teeth as soon as two teeth touch each other. Children will need help with flossing until they develop the coordination to do it themselves, usually around age 10. Flossing picks or floss holders can make the process easier for both parents and children. Flossing should be done at least once a day, ideally before bed.

Timing of Brushing After Sugar Consumption

Many parents assume that brushing immediately after eating sugary foods is best, but this is not always the case. Immediately after acid attack, the enamel is in a softened state, and brushing can actually cause abrasion. It is better to wait 30-60 minutes after consuming acidic or sugary foods before brushing. In the meantime, rinsing the mouth with water can help neutralize acids and wash away food particles. If brushing must happen sooner, using a soft-bristled brush gently can minimize potential damage.

The Role of Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps reverse early demineralization. Sources of fluoride include fluoridated toothpaste (the primary source for most children), fluoridated drinking water where available, professional fluoride treatments at dental visits, and fluoride mouth rinses (for children old enough to rinse and spit without swallowing). Using fluoride toothpaste and receiving professional fluoride applications at dental visits are important components of cavity prevention. Discuss with your pediatric dentist at myPediaClinic the best fluoride regimen for your child.

Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting, whichever comes first. After that, visits should occur every six months or as recommended by your dentist. Regular visits allow for early detection and treatment of decay, professional cleaning, fluoride application, and ongoing education and guidance. At myPediaClinic, we make dental visits positive experiences that children do not fear.

Special Considerations for Different Age Groups

Sugar management and dental care needs vary across different stages of childhood. Understanding these differences helps parents provide appropriate care at each age.

Infants and Toddlers (0-2 Years)

For the youngest children, preventing early childhood caries is the primary focus. Never put an infant or toddler to bed with a bottle containing anything other than water. Avoid prolonged on-demand breastfeeding through the night after teeth have erupted. Do not dip pacifiers in honey or other sweeteners. Begin oral hygiene early by wiping gums with a soft cloth before teeth erupt and brushing as soon as teeth appear. Avoid giving fruit juice to children under 1 year and limit it after that. Introduce healthy eating habits from the start of solid food introduction.

Preschoolers (2-5 Years)

This is a critical time for establishing oral hygiene habits and dietary patterns. Continue to supervise and assist with brushing. Limit sugary snacks and drinks and be aware of hidden sugar sources. Teach children about “healthy foods” and “sometimes foods.” Schedule the first dental visit if not already done and continue with regular checkups. Address thumb sucking and pacifier habits that may affect dental development. Make oral care routines consistent and positive.

School-Age Children (6-12 Years)

As children gain independence, they may make their own food choices at school and with friends. Educate them about making healthy choices when you are not around. Continue to monitor brushing and flossing until they can do it properly independently. Be aware of influences from peers and media that may promote sugary foods. Ensure regular dental visits continue. For children with braces or other orthodontic appliances, extra attention to oral hygiene and sugar reduction is important as these appliances can trap food and increase decay risk.

Teenagers (13-18 Years)

Teenagers face unique challenges including increased independence, peer pressure, access to money to buy their own snacks, and busy schedules that may disrupt healthy eating and oral care routines. Energy drinks, sports drinks, and coffee drinks (often loaded with sugar) are popular in this age group. Discuss the importance of oral health in the context of overall health, appearance, and confidence. Ensure they understand the long-term consequences of poor dental health. Encourage them to take ownership of their oral care. Address any ongoing orthodontic needs and emphasize the importance of retainers if treatment has been completed.

Creating a Sugar-Smart Home Environment

The home environment plays a significant role in shaping children’s eating habits. Creating a home that supports healthy eating makes it easier for children to make good choices.

Stocking the Kitchen for Success

Keep healthy foods readily available and visible – place a bowl of fruit on the counter, keep cut vegetables in the refrigerator at child height, and have healthy snacks pre-portioned and easy to grab. Limit the presence of sugary foods in the home; if they are not there, they cannot be eaten. When you do have treats in the house, keep them out of sight and reserve them for occasional, planned enjoyment rather than spontaneous snacking. Make water the most accessible beverage.

Establishing Family Eating Practices

Family meals provide opportunities for modeling healthy eating and for positive social connection around food. Aim to eat meals together as a family whenever possible. Keep mealtimes pleasant and pressure-free; avoid battles over food. Serve water or milk with meals rather than sweetened drinks. Offer a variety of healthy foods and allow children to choose what and how much they eat from what is offered. Avoid using dessert as a bargaining chip for finishing vegetables or other foods.

Managing External Influences

Children encounter sugary foods in many settings outside the home – at school, friends’ houses, parties, and through advertising. You cannot control all of these exposures, but you can prepare your child to navigate them. Discuss with your child what to do when offered candy or treats at friends’ houses. Work with schools on food policies and advocate for healthier options. Talk about advertising and how it tries to make us want unhealthy foods. Teach that it is okay to politely decline foods they do not want or to take a small portion.

Handling Holidays and Special Occasions

Holidays and celebrations often center around sugary foods, and trying to eliminate all sweets during these times is impractical and can create negative associations. Instead, plan ahead for how you will handle treats. Allow children to enjoy some treats as part of the celebration without guilt. Balance treats with plenty of healthy foods. After holidays like Halloween or Eid, consider letting your child choose a limited number of candies to keep and donating or discarding the rest. Focus on the non-food aspects of celebrations – the family time, traditions, and activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sugar and Children’s Dental Health

Expert Pediatric Dental Care at myPediaClinic

At myPediaClinic, we are committed to helping children achieve and maintain optimal dental health. Dr. Yasmin Kottait and our pediatric dental team provide comprehensive care in a child-friendly environment where children feel comfortable and even enjoy their visits. We understand that dental health begins with prevention, and we work closely with families to establish good habits, reduce sugar-related risks, and catch any problems early when they are easiest to treat.

Our services include regular checkups and cleanings, fluoride treatments and dental sealants to protect teeth from decay, treatment of cavities with child-friendly techniques, education on diet, oral hygiene, and cavity prevention, and guidance for parents on establishing healthy habits at home. We believe that every child deserves a healthy smile, and we partner with families to make that possible. Whether your child needs a first dental visit, routine care, or treatment for dental problems, we are here to help.

Conclusion: Building a Foundation for Lifelong Dental Health

The habits and patterns established in childhood set the stage for lifelong health. By reducing your child’s sugar intake, teaching them about the importance of dental care, and establishing good oral hygiene practices, you are giving them a foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. The effort you put in now pays dividends in fewer cavities, less dental treatment, and a beautiful, confident smile that serves your child well into adulthood.

Saying no to candy – or at least saying “not too much, not too often” – is one of the best gifts you can give your child. It is not about deprivation but about balance, education, and helping children develop a healthy relationship with food. With patience, consistency, and the right support, your child can enjoy a diet that satisfies them, keeps their teeth healthy, and sets them up for a lifetime of wellness.

If you have questions about your child’s dental health, concerns about sugar intake, or would like to schedule a dental checkup, we invite you to contact myPediaClinic. Dr. Yasmin Kottait and our team are here to support your family in achieving the best possible dental health for your children. Together, we can help your child say yes to a healthy smile!