Think the school lunches you pack for your child are healthy and nutritious? Believe the food being served in the cafeteria is benefiting your little one’s teeth and gums. Unfortunately, many parents don’t realize just how harmful some of the items consumed by their children can be. This is why it is important that you not only be mindful of what you pack in their lunchbox but also talk to your child about healthy foods to eat should they be buying them at school. Read on to learn which nutrients can help or hinder a young smile.
Consider the School-Bought Lunch
If your child purchases their lunch at school, you’ll need to have plenty of talks that go over which foods to reach for and which ones to stay away from. By continually impressing upon them the importance of good oral health and how the foods they consume can directly affect their smile, you may be surprised what they decide to put on their plate.
A few things you should discourage your child from consuming include:
- Sodas
- Potato chips
- Candy
- Chocolate milk (this can be a treat now and then)
- Canned fruit (fresh fruit is always better because it doesn’t contain added sugars)
Instead, encourage your child to choose one fresh fruit (i.e., apple, banana), steamed vegetables (if available), and some type of protein. A small amount of starch is fine in moderation, but it should not make up the majority of their plate.
Packing a Lunch at Home
If you’re in charge of packing your child’s lunch, you have control over what goes in, right? This is where grocery shopping is important. Why? Because the foods you keep in your house are ultimately what will end up in your child’s lunchbox. Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, calcium-enriched foods (i.e., yogurt, cheese, milk), and even leafy greens are all healthy alternatives you can incorporate into your child’s mid-day meal. While a salad, apple, and cup of yogurt may not be the most enticing lunch your child receives, look for recipes that will help get them excited about the food they’re preparing to eat.
But what about the epitome of sack lunches – the PB&J? If you want to pack a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, make sure it’s only once in a while. Why? Because everything from the bread to the jelly to peanut butter is sticky and can adhere to your child’s teeth. If left on too long, it can break down tooth enamel and cause cavities to form.
You should also remember to avoid juice boxes and sports drinks because of their high sugar and acidic contents. Instead, pack water with their meal to help keep them hydrated throughout the day.
Your child’s lunch doesn’t have to be bland. Slipping in a sweet treat now and then is perfectly fine, but it shouldn’t be a daily occurrence. Helping your little one make the right choices when it comes to the foods they eat will ensure they avoid decay and disease and instead, embrace a healthier, happier smile.
About the Practice
At Tranquil Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we provide compassionate, high-quality pediatric dental care for children in Coppell, TX and surrounding communities including Irving, Carrollton, Lewisville, and Flower Mound. Our team focuses on preventive care, patient education, and creating a positive dental experience so children feel comfortable and confident at every visit.
Led by Dr. Kimberly Tran, a board-certified pediatric dentist in Coppell, TX, our practice is dedicated to helping children develop healthy smiles that support their overall growth and well-being.
If you have questions about your child’s dental health or would like to schedule an appointment with a trusted pediatric dentist in Coppell, TX, our team is here to help.
📞 Call us at (972) 393-9779 or contact our office online to get started.