Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather today and celebrate all the things they are thankful for year after year. One component many individuals may not include on their list is their smile. Having healthy teeth and gums is important, and it benefits not only a person’s confidence and appearance but also their overall well-being. Individuals can make holiday oral health a priority by adopting these three tips for healthier smiles.
Choose Water Instead of Wine
Wine of any variety contains high levels of sugar and acidity. Not only does this cause tooth enamel to wear down, but it also increases the risk of cavities. By switching out wine for regular water, individuals can prepare to stay fully hydrated while consuming a regular Thanksgiving meal. Water is beneficial to one’s oral health because it flushes out any bad oral bacteria while also keeping the salivary glands working at an optimal level. It also prevents any stains and neutralizes acids.
Add More Protein and Vegetables
Thanksgiving side dishes can be difficult to pass up, but teeth can become easy victims for the sugar and carbohydrates that many of them contain. Sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, gravy, and dressing might seem tempting. But the ingredients will cause much damage to a person’s tooth enamel, causing it to break down and develop dental decay if one is not careful. This is why it is strongly suggested that individuals add more protein and vegetables to their plates. This will not only increase the work of the salivary glands, but it will also keep the person full of nutrients that are more beneficial for the mouth and body.
Be Careful When Surrounded by Sweets
Holiday desserts are some of the most delectable, but they’re also some of the most damaging to teeth. The pies, the cakes, the cookies, and the cobblers all contain high amounts of sugar and give bacteria a reason to spread. If left on teeth too long, the harmful acids will begin to eat away at a person’s tooth enamel, causing small holes to form over time. When cavities develop, the only way to treat them is with fillings or dental crowns. Instead of stocking up on sweet treats this Thanksgiving, it is recommended that individuals eat fresh fruit. Or if a bite of grandma’s pecan pie must be eaten, individuals should remember to rinse out their mouth with water to keep any of the sugar from adhering to the oral cavity.
Enjoying a meal at Thanksgiving does not have to be a fearful experience. By adopting these tips, individuals can eat some of their favorite foods while also taking proper care of their smiles.
About Grand Dental – Aurora
At Grand Dental – Aurora, our team consists of experts who are committed to taking care of smiles of all types. Offering preventive services to assist individuals in maintaining healthier teeth and gums, we believe in providing practical advice when it comes to eating during the holiday season. Patients who want to take better care of their smiles this upcoming Thanksgiving are encouraged to visit our website or call (630) 538-8302 to learn how we can help.