Packing school lunches is a daily routine for many parents, but did you know what goes into your child’s lunchbox can have a big impact on their oral health? At Antelope Creek Family Dentistry, we care about keeping your child’s smile strong, not just in the dental chair, but in the lunchroom, too.
Here’s a helpful guide to the best and worst snack choices when it comes to protecting those pearly whites.
Parent-Approved, Smile-Friendly Snacks
1. Crunchy Fruits and Veggies
Apples, carrots, and celery act like natural toothbrushes. Their crunch helps scrub away plaque and stimulate saliva, which is your mouth’s built-in defense against decay.
2. Cheese and Yogurt
Rich in calcium and phosphates, dairy products help strengthen enamel. Cheese also neutralizes acid in the mouth, which keeps cavities at bay.
3. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, sunflower seeds, and walnuts are packed with nutrients and low in sugar. Just be mindful of school allergy policies and choking hazards for little ones.
4. Whole Grain Sandwiches
Whole grains break down slower than processed white bread, meaning less sugar for cavity-causing bacteria to feed on. Bonus points for lean protein fillings like turkey or egg.
5. Water, Water, Water
Skip the juice boxes. Plain water is best for rinsing away food particles and staying hydrated without the sugar overload.
Snacks to Skip or Save for Special Occasions
1. Sticky Sweets (Fruit Snacks, Gummy Vitamins, Lollipops)
These cling to teeth long after lunch is over, giving bacteria more time to produce cavity-causing acids.
2. Starchy Processed Foods (Chips, Crackers, Pretzels)
These may not taste sweet, but they break down into sugars and often stick between teeth and along the gumline.
3. Juice Boxes and Flavored Milk
Even 100% fruit juice is high in natural sugars. Drinking it slowly throughout the day is especially harmful to enamel.
Pack a Smile That Lasts All Day
By making a few smart swaps, you can keep your child’s teeth healthy and their energy steady. Have questions about cavity prevention or need to schedule a checkup? Visit us at Antelope Creek Family Dentistry, call (402) 486-1200, or book online today. Our dentists in Lincoln, NE, look forward to welcoming you!