A full set of teeth is what makes it possible to enjoy your favorite holiday meals and chat with relatives that you rarely see. So to show how grateful you are for your dental health in Kittanning, make sure you take extra good care of your teeth this Thanksgiving! There are more dental hazards associated with this holiday than you might think, but you can keep your smile safe with these 5 tips.
1. Floss Regularly Throughout the Day
From snacking on appetizers to indulging in the main course to sneaking a few leftovers, many families turn the Thanksgiving feast into an all-day event. The more often you eat, the more likely food will get trapped between your teeth, which can lead to harmful plaque buildup. Keep your grin clean by flossing after every time you eat something.
2. Be Careful Around Sticky Desserts
Traditional Thanksgiving desserts like pecan pie are often very sticky. They cling to your teeth for a very long time, and the sugar they contain can encourage the bacteria in your mouth to produce cavity-causing acids. While there’s no need to avoid sticky treats altogether, make sure that you only enjoy them in moderation, and don’t forget to rinse your mouth with water afterward to get rid of excess food debris.
3. Try Not to Overindulge in Starchy Foods
Many common Thanksgiving side dishes like mashed potatoes and stuffing are high in starch, which can have the same negative impact on your oral health as sugar. Be careful not to pick up too many starchy foods when you’re loading your plate. Try to focus more on turkey and vegetables, which are much better for your smile overall.
4. Have Some Cranberries
As long as they’re not used in a recipe that’s high in sugar, cranberries can be great for your teeth. They contain polyphenols that can help fight off harmful bacteria, meaning they can significantly lower your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. As such, make sure your Thanksgiving meal includes a healthy serving of cranberries.
5. Chase Down Dinner with Water Instead of Wine
While you’re probably already aware that wine can stain your teeth, it’s important to remember that it’s acidic as well. That means that it can significantly weaken the enamel protecting your teeth. Meanwhile, water helps wash away the harmful substances that might be left in your mouth after a meal. The takeaway here is that if you need something to drink once you’re finished eating, water is a more tooth-friendly option than wine.
Hopefully, the above tips will help you keep your smile safe during Thanksgiving. Remember that you can always schedule a checkup with your dentist in Kittanning if you have any concerns about oral health before or after the celebration.
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller has over 40 years of experience in the dental world. He is a proud member of the Pennsylvania Dental Association and a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. At Voller Dentistry, he offers a variety of services to help his patients enjoy optimum oral health. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Voller after Thanksgiving, visit his website or call (724) 543-4948.