Teeth Healthy Lunch Tips
When everyone gets back to the normal routine of school and work this fall, it also means back to the routine of packing up those lunchboxes. We all know that what we eat makes a huge impact on our physical health, but it can also have a big impact on our dental health as well.
To keep your family getting the best nutrition for both their bodies and their teeth, we have some great tips for packing lunches for school and work this year. And they are approved for all ages.
Stick to Water
Sugary drinks can be tempting, especially to smaller children. They come in amazingly colorful packages and taste great. Who wouldn’t want to try one out?
And we aren’t just talking about soda. Did you know that fruit juice is just as bad for you sugar-wise as soda is? When packing lunches it is best to stick to water.
Water is not only the better option when compared to sugary drinks but has great benefits for your dental health. Water washes away leftover food and cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth. And it also increases saliva production, which reduces your risk of tooth decay.
Choose Teeth Healthy Options
There are some great food options for packing in your lunches that are absolutely great for your teeth. And they can be adapted for all ages.
- Cheese- It is a great option because it encourages your body to make more saliva, which reduces your risk of tooth decay. In addition to that, it is high in calcium and protein which help strengthen your teeth. The calcium also is absorbed by your tooth enamel to block bacteria growth.
- Crunchy Veggies- Vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and broccoli are great for your teeth. They have a high water content which helps with the bad bacteria in your mouth. They also can act as a natural toothbrush in your mouth while you eat them, gently cleaning your teeth. These veggies are also full of vitamins and minerals that are amazing for your teeth.
- Healthy Fruits- If your family is craving some sweets, try biting down on something like a juicy apple. You can also try some strawberries which are packed with Vitamin C, antioxidants, and also malic acid, which helps with tissue repair and can even naturally whiten your teeth.
- Whole Grains- Simple carbohydrates increase your risk of cavities, however, that isn’t the case when it comes to whole grains. Try substituting options in your lunches such as whole wheat bread and pasta, brown rice, oatmeal, and other whole grains.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
You can pack the healthiest lunches on the planet, but if you don’t practice good oral hygiene habits, your teeth can’t be in the best shape. It is important at every age to combine a tooth-healthy diet alongside your regular brushing and flossing routine.
Sometimes setting reminders for your children or yourselves to take care of dental hygiene routines could be helpful. It may seem silly, but our lives are busy and we can easily forget to take care of ourselves.
It is also important to visit your local Lindale dentist every six months for your semi-annual dental checkup. These checkups can let you know if you need to change anything in your routine. Also, they can catch any small problems in your dental health before they become big problems.
Call To Schedule Your Checkup
We are here to help with any and all of your dental needs. Call us today to schedule your next dental checkup, (903) 231-6605.
And as always, if you have any dental concerns in between your next scheduled appointment do not hesitate to call. We are always here to help. Your family’s dental health is our top priority.