Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Whether you are looking forward to cooking your favorite dishes or catching up with family, one thing is for certain: you’re going to enjoy a delicious meal! However, many holiday foods aren’t the best for your smile. The good news is that by making a few simple changes, you can enjoy your meal without having to worry about the state of your teeth. Here are some tips that can help keep your teeth in tip-top shape this Thanksgiving dinner.
Make Tooth-Healthy Choices
Thanksgiving dinner is delicious, and if you choose the right options, it can have benefits for your teeth! For instance, turkey contains phosphorus, which combines with vitamin D and calcium to keep your teeth and bones strong. Sweet potatoes and cranberries are rich in fiber, so they can help to clean your teeth by stimulating saliva production.
Stay Hydrated with Water
As delicious as soda and juice are, it is best to choose water with your meal. Water helps to wash away food stuck in the teeth and limits the amount of sugar lingering in your mouth. Water also helps to increase your saliva flow, cleansing your teeth.
Be Smart with Alcohol
Many people like to enjoy a glass of wine with their meal or afterward. However, the high acid content in alcoholic beverages can erode the teeth over time. Alcohol also dehydrates the mouth by reducing saliva production. Additionally, drinks like red wine can cause staining if you enjoy them too often. To reduce your risk of all of these issues, remember to drink a glass of water after you finish your alcoholic beverage.
Choose Desserts Wisely
Thanksgiving dinner is never complete without your favorite desserts! However, many of them are loaded with sugar and stick to the teeth. For example, pecan pie has lots of sugar, and berry pies a highly pigmented and can stain your teeth. Instead, have a small piece of pumpkin pie or another dessert that won’t linger for long in the mouth.
Have Some Floss on Hand
It’s a good idea to bring some dental floss with you if you aren’t enjoying your Thanksgiving dinner at home. If you’re expecting appetizers, main dishes, sides, and desserts, you’re going to need a good flossing afterward. This way, you can keep your smile fresh between courses. Remember to wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth.
Have an amazing Thanksgiving with your family, but don’t forget about your oral health. By using the tips listed above, you can enjoy your dinner while keeping your smile safe!
About the Practice
At June Beach Smiles, Dr. Greg Riley and Dr. Duane Keuning are proud to be serving patients in the Juno Beach Community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. For more ways to keep your smile healthy or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (561) 622-7243.