The holiday season is here, which means you’re surrounded by a variety of foods that will tempt your taste buds. As you prepare for Thanksgiving dinner, your dentist will recommend watching what you eat to ensure the holidays don’t come back to haunt your smile. Here are 5 tips to keep your mouth healthy this Thanksgiving.
1. Cut Down on Sugar
Sweet foods and drinks are staples of the holiday season. However, candy, cookies, and eggnog aren’t the only things that contain sugar. Cranberry sauce, wine, and other seasonal favorites contain plenty of sugar, which combines with bacteria to create an acidic plaque that will erode your enamel over time. Once your enamel is gone, it won’t grow back. It’s best to cut back on your sugar consumption to prevent tooth decay.
2. Limit Starches
Sugar isn’t the only thing that can contribute to cavities. Starches also feed cavity-causing bacteria. Stuffing, mashed potatoes, and biscuits can lead to bad news next time you visit your dentist. Instead, choose fresh fruits and vegetables to keep your teeth healthy.
3. Avoid Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks
Dark foods and drinks can stain your enamel, like red wine, cranberries, and balsamic dressing. No amount of brushing can reverse tooth discoloration. If you can’t resist a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, use a straw and drink it all at once to limit contact with your teeth. Brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water after having anything that may stain your enamel.
4. Skip Alcohol
Alcohol causes dehydration, which can make your mouth dry. A dry mouth encourages the growth of harmful oral bacteria that can affect your teeth and gums. It’s better to drink water instead of alcohol. You will stay hydrated and keep your mouth moist.
5. Eat Plenty of Fresh Vegetables
Vegetables are loaded with nutrients to keep your mouth and body healthy. Crisp vegetables also act as scrub brushes for your teeth to reduce plaque. Besides snacking on carrots, celery, and other crunchy veggies, eat plenty of dark leafy greens.
Although the next few weeks will be busy, commit to good oral hygiene. If you are snacking more often, brush your teeth after every meal, and don’t forget to floss daily.
About Dr. Bikram Singh
Dr. Singh earned his dental degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and has regularly pursued advanced training in many specialties, including dental implants, sleep medicine, and the latest technologies. He is a member of the American Dental Association and many other professional organizations. Schedule an appointment through his website or call (919) 230-8590.