When your child is at school, they need to make all sorts of different choices throughout the day. This includes what they are going to be eating for lunch. From the school cafeteria line to prepared lunches from home, you know that it’s crucial for your child to get all of the essential vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. However, have you ever thought about how their lunch is affecting their smile? Read on to learn about some of the great and harmful food items that are common in school lunches.
Harmful Foods Your Child Should Limit
They may taste great, but the following food items can do more harm than good:
- Chocolate Milk: This is a common option for children at school. While it is a great source of calcium and vitamin D that contributes to strong teeth, it also contains a lot of added sugar. This isn’t the worst option available, but it is still best saved for occasions.
- Juice Boxes: Sugar is the main reason why this drink isn’t tooth friendly. Sugar clings to the teeth for hours and increases your child’s risk of tooth decay. Ultimately, it would be better for your child to drink water with their lunch and have juice as an intermittent treat.
- Canned Fruit: The worse part about many canned fruits is that they contain added sugar in addition to the natural sugar and acids that are already present. It is always best for your child to consume fresh fruit over canned fruit whenever possible.
How to Make a Tooth-Friendly Lunch for Your Child
When you prepare your child’s lunch at home, you can help them to avoid many cavity-causing foods. Here are some tips to help.
- Include lots of fruit, veggies, grains, and calcium-fortified dairy products, like cheese, yogurt, and milk.
- Avoid sticky foods that aren’t easily and quickly washed away by saliva.
- Choose nutritious beverages that are low in sugar. Milk and water are both good options.
- Include a travel toothbrush and toothpaste in your kid’s lunchbox. By brushing after their meals, they can reduce their risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
When it comes to your child’s oral health, you don’t want to take risks. By using the tips listed above, you can help to keep your child’s smile healthy and happy!
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan is an experienced orthodontist who has been working in the field for over a decade. She earned her dental doctorate from Temple University before pursuing her Orthodontic Certification and master’s in biomedical science. Currently, she is a proud member of the Southern Association of Orthodontists and the American Association of Orthodontists. For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child at her office in Cumming, visit her website or call (678) 456-5572.