Though schools provide children with access to an assortment of meal options, the majority of the foods available to them has little to no nutritional value. You may choose to pack your child’s lunch to give them the nourishment they need for healthy teeth and bones, but what exactly should they be eating? Feeding them the right foods can help lead them to making good decisions for their oral health even when you’re not around. Here are some healthy alternatives to school lunches.
Cavity Central
Cavities are permanently damaged parts of the tooth that form when bacteria in the mouth feeds on sugar in the foods and drinks we consume. This creates acids that damage the tooth enamel and make holes in the teeth. Common school lunch foods and drinks that can encourage the formation of cavities include potato chips, crackers, pretzels, chocolate milk, canned fruit, juice, pizza, nachos, hamburgers, french fries, burritos, ice cream, and popsicles.
Encourage Good Oral Health Habits
By preparing a bagged lunch for your child and encouraging good oral health habits, you’ll be able to avoid foods that can lead to cavities. Some ways to promote good decision making and a tooth-healthy diet include:
- Pack fruits and vegetables high in vitamins and fiber such as carrots, strawberries, apples, bananas, celery, and broccoli
- Give them low-fat milk or water to drink rather than high-sugar beverages like juice and soda
- Include calcium-fortified dairy products such as cheese and yogurt
- Steer clear of snacks like candy, chips, or anything else they could buy from a vending machine
- Keep your child’s taste buds from getting bored and give their body a variety of nutrients by switching up what you pack
- Avoid packing sticky foods that can’t easily be washed away with water
- Include a toothbrush in their lunch so they can brush their teeth after they eat and get rid of any food particles stuck between them
If you follow the above steps, you’ll be doing your part to set your child up to make healthy decisions. Whether they eat a lunch provided by you or the school, you can teach them to make good choices that can lead to a lifetime of good oral health!
About the Practice
Dentistry by Design provides dental care that makes our Bartlesville patients feel confident in their smiles. We never pressure patients into treatments they aren’t ready to undergo and make their trust, comfort, and safety our top priority. Our team strives to give back to our community and has worked closely with several organizations to do so. Dr. Lumpkin and team are happy to treat patients of all ages and provide services specially designed for growing smiles. For more information regarding what foods to feed your child to improve their dental health, visit our website or call us at (918) 205-7083.