It’s hard not to be excited about the holidays, especially if you’re a fan of food! But it’s no secret that much of the food we eat during the holiday season isn’t great for our pearly whites. That said, you might want to be a little extra careful this time of the year and enjoy some of these favorites in moderation. Here’s more from your dentist in Jefferson along with some tips for keeping your smile healthy.
Holiday Foods to Enjoy in Moderation
Regardless of what holiday you’re celebrating, there’s almost certain to be delicious food on the table! But there are some things you should consider enjoying in moderation:
- Stuffing & mashed potatoes – These holiday favorites are high in starches—and starches can be just as harmful for your teeth as sugars!
- Candy canes – Not only are these items virtually pure sugar, but they’re in contact with your teeth for extended periods of time.
- Dried fruit – Even though it might seem like it’s okay because it’s fruit, dried fruit can easily stick to the surfaces of your teeth and provide nourishment for cavity-causing bacteria.
- Sugary baked goods – As delicious and beloved as these items might be, choices like cookies, pies, cakes, homemade pastries, and more can all be harmful if eaten in excess.
- Eggnog, warm cider, and hot cocoa – These beverages are loaded with sugar and can sometimes contain alcohol, which will dry out your mouth and fuel bacteria.
Tooth-Friendly Tips for the Holidays
In addition to enjoying certain foods, there are other things you can do to protect your pearly whites during the holiday season:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Don’t skip out on flossing—it’s just as important as brushing!
- Drink plenty of water—it helps to keep you hydrated and ensure that your mouth’s producing enough saliva, which is your first line of defense against cavity-causing bacteria.
- Consider scheduling one of your biannual preventive checkups during the holidays.
By consuming these foods in moderation and following these tips, you can enjoy a healthier and happier smile all throughout the holidays and beyond!
About the Practice
The team at Dental Group of Jefferson is honored to serve patients and families in the Jefferson, OH area under the leadership of Dr. Casey Hammond and Dr. Stephanie Pichler. Their practice is pleased to offer a wide range of services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative care. If you’d like to arrange a visit this holiday season, feel free to visit the practice’s website or give them a call: (440) 576-7040.