Helping your child build a healthy smile extends beyond brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist—it’s also important to ensure they maintain a balanced diet. The team at Bert E. Bathiany IV, DMD, in Florence, KY, understands that between school, work, after-school activities, and just everyday life, preparing nutritious meals can sometimes be difficult. To make your routine easier, and to set your child up for a lifetime of optimum oral health, they share a few ideas for easy school lunches below.

3 Dentist-Approved Lunches That Are Quick & Simple

1. Sandwiches

While a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is the go-to favorite for most families, both spreads are high in sugar, which can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. You can make a healthier alternative by swapping out white bread for whole-grain slices and using natural peanut butter and jam with less than five grams of sugar per serving.

2. Snacks

Instead of chips and brownies, which are high in sodium and sugar, fill your child’s lunch box with colorful vegetables like red peppers, carrots, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. These veggies are full of important minerals and vitamins that fight tooth decay. You can also pack hummus as a dip, which is tasty and high in protein.

3. Drinks

Milk contains calcium, which makes it an excellent drink for building strong enamel. However, skip the sweetened drinks, like chocolate or strawberry varieties, which are high in sugar. If your children don’t like milk, pack a bottle of water, which is a much healthier alternative to any sugary juice boxes.

In addition to a healthy diet, your child should also see a dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and checkups. Bert E. Bathiany IV, DMD, is the premier source for dental care in Florence, KY, offering a wide range of general and cosmetic dentistry services for children of all ages. With 38 years of experience, their team has the skills and expertise needed to keep your little one’s smile beautiful and healthy. Give them a call today at (859) 525-2100 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website for more information on what they do.