It’s that time of year! Back to school!!! The time of year that Moms and Dads are found scratching their heads at Target trying to figure out whether the 3 prong, plastic, 2 pocket folders comes in 5 different colors so they can check it off the school supply list (There is always one item that makes buying the whole list in one trip impossible). We have been there!
Along with school supply shopping, it is also time to start thinking about what to pack in your child’s lunch. Among the seemingly endless options there are prepackaged lunches and individual serving sizes of chips and cookies. These foods are usually high in sugar, sodium, and fat and, while easy to grab at the last minute before you miss the bus, do not make the best choices for school lunches. Sticky foods, such as fruit roll ups and fruit snacks, get stuck in the grooves of your child’s teeth and will likely stay there until they brush later that evening…giving bacteria an abundant supply of sugar.
The good news is that there are other choices that are convenient and far healthier for your child’s teeth and body.
Here are a few ideas the are both convenient and healthy (and please feel free to share your ideas in the comment section below…we believe in the “it takes a village” philosophy).
Cheese- Cheese is actually one of the best foods for your teeth because it neutralizes acids caused by bacteria and contains calcium, which can help the teeth remineralize. Cheese sticks are convenient because they offer single portion servings.
Hard boiled eggs-another healthy and convenient option that provides protein which is helpful for tissue development.
Nuts-especially raw nuts, the rough texture can help clean acid off the teeth and the provide protein.
Vegetable cups- vegetables are much lower in sugar than fruits and also tend to provide more fiber. Carrots and cucumbers are popular, but try sugar snap peas or sweet bell peppers to keep kids from getting bored as this often makes them crave quick and often unhealthy alternatives.
Water-Opt out of sending juice boxes and sport drinks to school and just send water, which neutralizes the acids in the mouth and cleanses your teeth.
Another important part of helping keep your child’s smile healthy is by keeping them up to date with their dental exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments. In 2015, the CDC reported that almost 20% of school age children have untreated dental decay. Taking your child to visit their Apex Dentist helps keep their teeth healthy and helps them have positive dental experiences from a young age.
If your child is old enough to play sports requiring mouthguards, ask your Apex Dentist if they can provide you with a custom mouthguard. It is important for your child to protect their teeth by wearing a mouthguard. One thing we know is that a better fitting mouthguard is one your child is more likely to actually wear.
Good luck to all our beautiful kids on their first day back at school, whether its the first day of kindergarten or their senior year of high school. They grow up so fast, so remember to cherish every moment and every (healthy) smile!
