For parents, back-to-school means back to routine and back to packing lunches! Packing a school lunch can carry more responsibility than it seems. Parents should make sure they’re providing their children with healthy options that will give them the energy and nutrients they need to succeed in school.

Just like the rest of our body, our teeth and gums need certain vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Our team has put together a list of lunch ideas that are healthy and can help benefit your child’s oral health!

Cheese + Lunch Meat Sandwich 

There are many benefits to this lunchtime favourite. Cheese contains a protein called ‘casein’ that’s known for strengthening tooth enamel! It also promotes saliva production. This is beneficial to your child as they normally won’t brush their teeth until they get home, and the extra saliva can help wash away bacteria in their mouth. Try adding a slide of cheese to your child’s sandwich or keep it on the side so they can enjoy it as a healthy snack.

Yogurt and Blueberries 

Calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, leafy greens and almonds promote strong bones and teeth! While greek yogurt is a great way to get extra protein in your child’s diet, we suggest giving them regular yogurt as it contains even more calcium.

In recent years, scientists have discovered that “berries can reduce the risk of tooth decay by lowering the activity of bacteria in the mouth.” Yogurt and blueberries just might be the perfect school snack for good oral health!

Apple Slices And Peanut Butter 

Similarly to cheese, eating an apple will produce saliva in your child’s mouth and help to rinse away bacteria and food particles. On top of this, peanut butter contains a mineral called phosphorus that can help prevent gum disease! If you decide to pack your child this snack, try brushing the apple slices with lemon juice to keep them from turning brown!

Visit Happy Trails This Back-To-School Season!

We’re almost ready to open our doors and start booking routine back-to-school children’s dentist appointments! Make sure to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages for all our latest announcements. We can’t wait to meet the little ones of Calgary very soon!