Thanksgiving is a time for gathering together with family and friends to celebrate what's most important in life and to share a hearty meal. Classic dishes such as sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and freshly baked turkey are a must for most people every year, but it is very important to remember that these classic Thanksgiving staples can easily set your dental health back a step or two. Don't let the delicious feast undo your year of careful brushing and flossing! With these simple tips, you can protect your teeth and gums, giving you just one more thing to be thankful for when it comes time to take family photos.
Not all snack foods are hazardous to your dental health. Leading up to the turkey feast, snack on mixed nuts or cheese, rather than sugary candy or cookies. Cheese is a surprisingly good choice for your teeth because it contains calcium and protein, both of which help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. Nuts also provide a good dose of calcium and tooth-friendly minerals to keep your smile strong.
It might be tempting to indulge in the sweet holiday treats, but it's better to eat a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Bacteria in the mouth thrives on sugar, but other foods can counter the harmful acids that develop as a result of eating too many sugary foods. Vegetables are particularly helpful for clearing away food and debris that may get stuck between your teeth, so don't skip the carrots or other hard vegetables!
Swishing clean tap water can help wash away debris and bacteria that build up throughout the day, particularly when grazing before and after the big meal. Tap water can also help protect your enamel because it contains fluoride.
Cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, and pie are the worst offenders for causing cavities after the holiday season has ended. The sugar and acids can stick in hard to reach places in your teeth for hours, allowing bacteria to infect your gums and weaken your enamel. While you don't have to avoid these treats altogether, it's best to swish water and brush your teeth soon after eating to reduce the risk as much as possible.
Whether traveling across the country or just to the next city for Thanksgiving, come prepared with your toothbrush and floss. Keeping your teeth clean right after a big meal can prevent bacteria from developing and creating plaque, which can be more difficult to clear away at the end of a long day. If you are not equipped with a brush or floss, rinse your mouth with water to wash out any remaining food, as well as to neutralize the acids in your mouth.
Dr. Aurasteh and the staff at Oral Care Dentistry hope that you and your loved ones have a happy,
healthy Thanksgiving this year! Don't forget to brush and floss every morning and night, especially during the long holidays, and schedule your family dental services at our family friendly Beverly Hills office. Call (310) 974-6779 or contact us online!
