How to Help Your Child Get an A+ in Oral Health this School Year

School is back in session, but are your child’s school lunches making the grade? Whether you’re packing a lunchbox or paying for school-made meals, what your kids eat during the day can have a lasting impact on their oral health. While you can’t always control what they choose when they’re away from home, here are some healthy options to send along, and a few suggestions you can give them when they’re deciding on their own.

Healthy Choices Start at Home

When packing your child’s school lunch, it’s important to remember that they may not always have access to a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. Thus, whatever you send should be tooth friendly. Safe items to provide include:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Nuts (if allowed) and seeds
• Whole grains
• Dairy products (yogurt, milk, cheese)
• Lean meats
• A reusable water bottle

If you are relying on your child to make healthy choices in the lunch line, encourage them to pick similar options when available, and to avoid foods such as:

• Candies, pastries, or ice cream
• Fruit juices
• Chips or French fries
• Soda or sports drinks
• Gummies
• Jellies or jams

Furthermore, be sure to remind them to never use their teeth to chew on their pens or pencils, fingernails, or to open stubborn snack packaging.

Other Ways to Protect Their Teeth

In addition to providing a wellspring of healthy meal options, you can help protect your child’s oral health by doing the following:

• Send them to school with an oral health care kit, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.
• Provide them with a bite guard if they grind their teeth.
• Provide them with a sports mouthguard if they play a sport during recess, PE, or after school.
• Make sure they are brushing and flossing before they leave for school and before they go to bed.
• Don’t skip their regular, semi-annual dental exams and cleanings, and if you notice any changes in their oral health, be sure to schedule an urgent appointment with your dentist.

Remember, excellent oral health is learned, too. Be your child’s first teacher by setting a positive example of a proper diet and hygiene techniques, and your child will have an A+ smile for the rest of their life!

About Dr. Kaopua

Dr. Jason Kaopua became fascinated by dentistry as a child and has let that childhood wonder lead him into a satisfying career that lets him help patients of all ages. Whether he’s teaching a child the importance of proper brushing or fitting a grownup with a beautiful set of veneers, he understands the positive impact excellent oral health can have on improving your life.

To schedule an appointment for your child at Albright Family Dental, please visit our website or call us today at 425-267-3333.