Now that it’s November, you’re probably excited about turkey time! Whether you enjoy the football games or love watching the parade, the part most people look forward to is the delicious dinner with the family. While this is the time to enjoy your favorite holiday meals, certain foods can increase your risk of dental issues, such as tooth decay. Read on to learn five smile-friendly tips to help you have a healthy Thanksgiving!
Tip #1: Avoid Snacking Throughout the Day
Do you typically enjoy munching on pieces of turkey or pumpkin pie throughout Thanksgiving day? No one can blame you for wanting to snack on these delicious treats. Even so, this may not be the best idea for your pearly whites. Many of your favorite foods may contain high amounts of sugar and carbohydrates, which can create acid byproducts in your mouth. The longer your teeth are exposed to these ingredients, the higher the risk of developing dental decay. Instead, try holding off and enjoying your full meals when saliva production is highest, as this will help naturally wash away bacteria and debris.
Tip #2: Be Careful with Hard or Sharp Foods
The last thing you’d want is to visit the emergency room instead of your family. For this reason, you’ll want to be cautious with certain snacks like chips, nuts, candies, popcorn, and other hard foods. One wrong bite and you can end up chipping, cracking, or damaging a tooth. Stick with softer foods in your meals, including well-cooked turkey!
Tip #3: Fill Your Plate with Veggies
While foods like cranberry sauce, stuffing, and pumpkin pie may not be the best for your smile, it’ll be nearly impossible to completely avoid them. To keep a healthier smile, make sure to also include plenty of vegetables on your plate, such as cooked carrots, roasted Brussels sprouts, and air-fried green beans. These will provide the nutrients your teeth need to remain clean and strong.
Tip #4: Minimize the Sugars You Eat
Most people know that sugar can wreak havoc on oral health. That said, who can really pass up sweet potatoes, apple pies, or marshmallow-topped goodies on Thanksgiving? To prevent complications like enamel erosion, be sure to drink lots of water to help wash away the sugars from your teeth.
Tip #5: Remember to Clean Your Teeth
Even if you do choose to frequently snack on your favorite Thanksgiving treats, try to at least clean your smile afterward. By rinsing your mouth and brushing after every meal, you’ll be able to keep your teeth sugar- and bacteria-free in the long run. You should also consider flossing after eating, as these are the areas food particles typically get stuck in.
You can have fun this Thanksgiving without putting your smile at risk of dental decay! Keep these few tips in mind, and you should be able to enjoy good oral health in the long run.
About the Author
Dr. Sherif Albert received his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He’s been selected as one of “America’s Top Dentists” and regularly pursues continuing education to expand his expertise and skills. He offers numerous advanced and comprehensive services, including dental checkups/cleanings, fluoride treatment, fillings, and gum disease therapy. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 815-462-9990.