Thanksgiving Tips That Will Keep Your Teeth Happy

Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy delicious meals and spend time with our loved ones. However, Thanksgiving is also one of the most dangerous holidays for your teeth. Here are a few tips that will help you avoid Thanksgiving dental problems.

Eat Hearty, Healthy Foods

For a healthy mouth at your Thanksgiving celebration, stick to foods that don’t require a lot of chewing. Steer clear of foods like caramels or nuts that require lots of work to break down in the mouth. Instead, try to eat foods that aren’t too tough or chewy and can be eaten quickly. This can help to protect tooth enamel even as you indulge a bit in your holiday meal.

Avoid Sticky Sweets

Sticky, chewy foods can be a problem for your pearly whites. They can be very damaging if eaten too frequently or if they’re too hard. Try to limit your consumption of candy corn, caramel apples, and other hard candies. If you do enjoy these types of treats, try to eat them in moderation and brush your teeth as soon as possible after enjoying them to remove any remaining food particles.

Another type of treat you want to avoid is any that are too sweet. Candy canes and other sugary sweets are a big no-no for your teeth. Instead, try to eat chocolate that is low in sugar, such as dark chocolate bars. Eating these sparingly is better than eating regular milk chocolate candy bars every day. Also, avoid soda or other sugary drinks like lemonade that are packed with added sugars.

If you’re planning on indulging in some sweet treats this holiday season, consider sipping on water with lemon afterward to help neutralize the acids in your mouth. 

Drink Plenty of Water

There’s no doubt that you’ll be enjoying plenty of delicious food and drinks during the holidays, including turkey and gravy! However, keeping your body hydrated is also important for oral health. Water promotes saliva flow to wash away bacteria in the mouth and prevent dry mouth. This also prevents your teeth from becoming overly sensitive from exposure to acid and sugars. Drinking water isn’t the only way to keep your mouth hydrated. Try to stay away from sugary beverages such as soda and juice that can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Instead, opt for water or milk to replenish your fluids and keep your teeth healthy while you indulge in all those tasty treats.

If you want to learn more about how it can help your oral health, feel free to contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment with our dentist. We’re always here to help your smile stay healthy and happy during the holiday season and beyond!