You use your teeth every single day, but you probably don’t think about it all that often. You use them to chew your food, keep saliva in your mouth, and smile. When you’re catching up with the family and enjoying your delicious Thanksgiving meal, it is worthwhile to keep your teeth in mind. Continue reading to learn a few holiday oral health tips from your dentist so you can keep your smile healthy throughout the season.
Eat Healthy
We all love the starchy dishes, like stuffing and dinner rolls, during thanksgiving dinner, but they aren’t the best for your teeth. Unfortunately, they can be harmful for your oral health. Just like sugar does, starch sticks to your teeth and helps to feel acid-producing bacteria that causes you to develop cavities. Instead of having too many starching foods, save up a large portion of your plate for turkey and vegetables. Don’t go too heavy on the gravy.
Avoid Sticky Sweets
A few classic holiday dishes are sticky and sugary. Ultimately, they are terrible for your oral health. Go easy on the cranberry sauce, gravy, and pecan pie. This way, you can avoid a future filled with tooth decay. If you really want some sweets, remember to wash your mouth out with water afterwards in order to wash away sugar and prevent it from sticking to your teeth and gums.
Bring Your Floss
If you’re having Thanksgiving dinner at home this year, remember to stock up on floss beforehand. If you are going to a family member or friend’s place, you should take some floss with you for the journey. When you’re eating appetizers, main courses, and desserts throughout the day, it isn’t all that surprising when you end up with food stuck between your teeth. By bringing floss, you can dislodge it and remove plaque buildup between meals.
Cut Out the Wine
Many people like to enjoy a glass of wine with their meal. However, your teeth don’t appreciate it as much as you do. Not only does the acid in wine stain your teeth, but it also weakens your tooth enamel. Your enamel’s job is to protect the teeth from decay, and it doesn’t grow back. By avoiding acidic foods and beverages, like wine, you can keep your teeth safe from developing cavities and discoloration.
This Thanksgiving, don’t forget to show more appreciation for your smile. You only have one of them and it would be difficult to go on without it. By following the tips listed above, you will prevent oral health issues and come out of the holidays season with a happy, healthy smile.
About the Author
Dr. Bert Tavary is an experienced dentist who has been serving patients for over 35 years. After serving as a Crew Chief in the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, he earned his DDS from the Emory University College of Dentistry. To learn more about the ways you can maintain a healthy smile or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tavary in St. Augustine, visit his website or call (904) 824-3540.