August has arrived, meaning that families around the country are beginning their back-to-school preparations. You might already be busy finding the right clothes and classroom supplies, but don’t forget that having a healthy smile can also set your child up for success in the coming semester.
For example, did you know certain foods available in the cafeteria at lunch could potentially harm their dental health? Continue reading to learn about 3 options that can cause problems and some more wholesome alternatives!
Food #1: Sugary Juice
Many schools offer a variety of beverages your kid can choose from, such as bottled water, whole or chocolate milk, or apple or orange juice. Unfortunately, many fruit juices contain plenty of sugar, which unleashes an acid attack in your child’s mouth that can damage their enamel. It also attracts harmful bacteria that contribute to oral issues, such as cavities and gum disease.
Drinking it occasionally isn’t risky, and might even provide certain benefits because of the nutrients included. However, you can protect your little one’s grin by providing them with a bottle of water instead. It has a neutral pH balance to counter acid damage and keeps their mouth cleaner, more hydrated, and smelling fresher.
Food #2: Sandwiches
Whether your child purchases lunch at school or you prefer to pack it at home, there’s a good chance that they’ll be enjoying plenty of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches this year. Peanut butter contains protein and many healthy fats that can help sustain your child’s energy levels throughout the day, but unfortunately, starches convert into sugars in the mouth. Biting into and chewing white bread can create a sticky paste that clings to your child’s teeth and gums, allowing plaque or tartar to form.
You can avoid this by making sandwiches with whole-grain bread, which hasn’t been stripped of its nutrients. You might also try making snack-wraps with tortillas or pita bread to keep carbs to a minimum.
Food #3: Packaged Snacks
What school lunch would be complete without a snack-size bag of Cheetos or potato chips? Many cafeterias offer a variety of prepackaged crackers, chips, and fruit snacks that might please your child’s taste buds, but won’t do their dental condition any favors.
For example, chomping on chips creates a sticky residue that can cling to the surface of your child’s teeth, encouraging germs to penetrate their enamel or connective tissues. Meanwhile, fruit snacks have lots of sugar and artificial dyes that can be damaging. Why not pack more wholesome options, like apple slices, cheese sticks, or baby carrots, for them to munch on?
Making more conscientious decisions about what you pack in your child’s lunchbox can help protect and preserve their smile in the coming school year!
About the Practice
At Healthy Kids Pediatric Dentistry, your family benefits from a team of experts who are dedicated to helping children build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. Dr. Cruet, Dr. Sockanathan, and Dr. Persaud collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your kids’ needs under one roof, including routine checkups and cleanings. If your child is starting school and requires a routine exam, you can request an appointment on the website or call (301) 871-8880.