The new school year has arrived, and no matter what it looks like for your child if it’s full-time e-learning, in the classroom or a mix of both, a healthy lunch is a must! There are a lot of foods that are great for teeth and assist in protecting against cavities.
Breckenridge Dental Care has a few food items to consider when packing your child’s lunch!
Foods that are good for teeth:
Cheese – String cheese, cubed cheese, all the cheese! Cheese raises the pH in our mouths and lowers the risk of tooth decay. It contains calcium and protein which is great for the enamel and it increases saliva in the mouth which rids the mouth of bacteria. This makes cheese a delicious snack and a great way to end meals, as it can protect your teeth until you brush at bedtime.
Yogurt – Like cheese, yogurt is rich in calcium and protein, making it a great to also have at lunch. Yogurt contains probiotics which benefit the gums. Make sure to choose yogurts that are plain with no added sugars.
Leafy Greens – We saw this one coming, right? Leafy greens are most likely to make its way on any healthy list. Greens are full of vitamins and minerals which is not only good for oral health, but overall health! Spice it up and make a side salad with fun toppings or add greens to any sandwich!
Apples – An apple a day can keep the …. Cavities away? Well, good news is it keeps the doctor AND cavities away – eating apples can also increase saliva, which washes away food particles and bacteria that otherwise stick around and end up sticking to the teeth which causes cavities.
Carrots – Like apples, carrots are crunchy and full of fiber, which contributes to saliva production. Carrots cannot replace the effect of your child brushing their teeth, but it can tide them over until they get home or are able to brush your teeth next. You can include carrots as a healthy snack, and kids can munch on them plain or with a healthy dip.
Contribute to your child’s oral health by making mouth-healthy decisions around their diet. But remember, none of these foods will ever replace brushing, flossing, or seeing your dentist for routine cleanings. Be sure your child is brushing two times a day for two minutes each time and visiting their dentist every six months.
Book an appointment today with Breckenridge Dental Care!