A nutritious meal at lunchtime plays an important role in your child’s energy and focus at school, and could make a big difference on their report card.
Packing a teeth-friendly school lunchbox doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming as long as you plan ahead, get used to a little nightly chopping action, and try to make it fun.
Lettuce Wraps with Cheese
Leafy greens and cheese are excellent for your teeth. Wrap slices of turkey and cheese in a lettuce leaf for a crunchy, delicious, and healthy lunch! Serve with a side of mustard for dipping.
Veggie Dippers with Hummus
Crunchy foods like carrots and celery can remove plaque and bacteria with each bite. Not to mention they are full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and phosphorus, which are great for teeth. Chop up carrot and celery sticks and serve with a healthy dip like hummus.
Black Bean and Rice Burgers
Vegetarian burgers are rich in phosphorus and vitamin B3, making them perfect for teeth and gums. They’re also packed fiber, so your child will feel fuller for longer.
Yogurt with Berries and Nuts
Yogurt is chock full of calcium, which is great for oral health. A plain Greek yogurt is ideal, since flavored yogurts are often loaded with sugar and other unpleasant chemicals. Add some tooth-friendly fruits like strawberries and blueberries and crunchy chopped nuts like almonds for your little one to mix in.
Broccoli and Cheese Soup
A warm and delicious broccoli and cheese soup is a great pick-me-up when the weather starts to get chillier. Making a big batch of homemade soup will last you a few lunches if you’re pressed for time and will also help you avoid the high levels of sodium and preservatives found in store-bought soups.
Foods to Avoid
When making your child’s lunch, avoid overly acidic and sugary foods like candy, soda, dried fruit, or too much citrus. Consuming too much of these foods can easily lead to cavities and plenty of visits to the dentist!
Don’t forget to schedule back-to-school dental cleanings and exams for the whole family! At Signature Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer services for kids and adults alike.