The leaves are changing colors, the pumpkin patches are popping up, and adults and kids alike are preparing to get ready for Thanksgiving break. There is a wide array of tasty foods to enjoy during this time of year, many of them being sugary and sweet. As good as they may taste, that doesn’t mean that they’re good for your smile. For three tips on how to show your smile some appreciation this Thanksgiving, read on!
Tip #1: Brush and Floss
As you already know, good oral hygiene is one of the most important parts of keeping your smile healthy, strong, and functioning correctly. That’s why it’s so important to brush once in the morning and once at night as well as to floss after your last meal of the day. During the holidays, since you may be eating more often, you might want to consider brushing and flossing even more often.
Additionally, make sure to wait at least 30 minutes after eating to clean your teeth. When you eat, the amount of acid in your mouth goes up. For this reason, waiting 30 minutes will prevent enamel damage.
Tip #2: Skip Sugary and Sticky Foods
Avoid eating sticky or sweet foods like taffy, caramel, cranberry sauce, and marshmallows. These are difficult to wash away and contain a lot of sugar. Since the bacteria that cause cavities feed on sugar, this raises your risk of tooth decay. Foods like rolls and other things that are high in carbs and starch break down into sugar in the mouth, so they can harm your teeth in the same way.
Tip #3: Eat Dentist-Approved Foods
Eat tooth-healthy foods that promote a strong smile instead of sweets and carbs. Some examples of foods that promote healthy pearly whites include:
- Protein-heavy vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and broccoli
- Fruits and veggies like carrots, pears, apples, and celery
- Low-fat or fat-free dairy products like cheese
- Lean meats like turkey or chicken
- Salmon and other fish
Tip #4: Drink Lots of Water
Dry mouth is caused by inadequate saliva production and raises your chances of gum disease, cavities, mouth sores, and other oral health issues. Drinking water will keep your mouth moist all day long. This will also help wash away food particles and bacteria. To increase saliva production, suck on sugar-free candy, chew sugar-free gum, or munch on fresh, crisp fruits and veggies.
This Thanksgiving, make sure to keep an eye on your smile. By practicing moderation and following the above tips, you can avoid a range of oral health issues so your smile continues to look its best!
About the Practice
Painted Skies Dental Center is led by Dr. Natalie J. Ortiz and Dr. Ramon M. Ortiz, two skilled dentists who enjoy helping patients achieve the beams of their dreams. They offer treatments like dental cleanings to keep your smile healthy and strong as well as other preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatments. They can also offer advice on how to prevent oral health problems this Thanksgiving. To learn more about Painted Skies Dental Center or to set up an appointment, call their office at (575) 521-8720 or visit their website.