As Thanksgiving Day approaches, now is a good time to evaluate how to keep your teeth healthy during this holiday, especially with many assortments of foods that are usually prepared.
Most popular food options are high in carbohydrates and sugars, which make your teeth prone to cavities. Being mindful of the foods you eat will help you to make smart food choices while still being able to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal. Your family dental care provider can also work with you to help ensure your gums and teeth stay healthy and happy this holiday season.
5 Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy at Thanksgiving
Decrease sugar intake
It is important to remember that bacteria love sugar, and bacteria cause cavities. Thus, eating too much sugar increases your chances of getting cavities. Choosing healthier foods such as raw fresh vegetables, nuts, and cheese would be the wiser choice for your oral and overall health.
Avoid sticky, chewy foods
These types of foods take longer to chew, which means they stay in your mouth longer. This will increase your chances of developing cavities.
Maintain a balance
You can still eat the foods you like on Thanksgiving Day; just keep it in moderation. Balancing the high carbs and sugars with smart food choices like fruits and vegetables is the key.
Stay hydrated
Socializing during the holidays over coffee or wine is nice and fun but remember to drink water throughout the day too. Water will help to wash away the plaque-building bacteria that are consumed and prevent cavities. Also, since coffee and wine are acidic, they have the potential to stain your teeth.
Pack your toothbrush and floss
The main cause of cavities is sugar that is left on or between a tooth. Excusing yourself to brush and floss after eating foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugar will help keep your mouth free of bacteria.
Thanksgiving Day is the time to remember all the wonderful things you are thankful for. Having a healthy smile should be one of them. So, keeping your smile healthy during the holiday season is a priority to your family dental care provider. Enjoying your favorite dishes while not sacrificing your oral health is possible.
One important tip to remember when eating unhealthy foods is to always rinse your mouth out with water afterward. Doing this after every meal and snack will help flush out any bacteria and food particles from your teeth. This will help to reduce cavities.
With all the candied yams, stuffing, pumpkin and pecan pies, cranberries, and more, it is imperative to continue with your daily oral hygiene regime. Taking care of your teeth is not only beneficial to your oral health but your overall health too.
Since your mouth is the first barrier that leads to the rest of your body, removing bacteria that enters your mouth helps to prevent infection from traveling. So, taking care of your oral health is taking care of your overall health too. You should always reach out to your family dental care provider for advice on how to keep your teeth healthy during this Thanksgiving holiday.
Daily Oral Care and Tips
Brush and floss
Brushing twice a day and flossing once should be done 7 days a week 365 days a year to help protect your teeth and gums from disease. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride to help make the tooth enamel stronger and fight plaque.
Clean the tongue
Use circular motions to clean as much of your tongue as possible without gagging. You can use floss or a tongue scraper to remove any lingering bacteria.
Use a mouth wash
Using a mouth wash with fluoride can increase the cleanliness of your mouth by reducing bacteria and plaque.
Regular dentist checkups
It is important to keep up with dental checkups throughout the year to prevent decay and eliminate plaque and tartar buildup.
Use the correct toothbrush
You should use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably. Consider an electric or battery-operated toothbrush that can reduce plaque and gingivitis.
Proper brushing techniques
Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle facing towards the area where your tooth meets the gum. Gently brush in circular short back and forth motions for 2 minutes.
Quit smoking
Eliminate nicotine and tobacco products that can cause decay. This is harmful to your overall health as well.
Healthy diet
Eat fiber-rich fruits and vegetables that help keep your teeth and gums clean and saliva flowing.
Limit your sugar intake
Sugar causes cavities. If you eat foods high in sugar, always rinse your mouth out with water afterward to remove any remaining bacteria.
Eating unhealthy foods can increase any oral issues you might be experiencing, especially if you are not aware of it. If you have questions about your oral care or any other dental concerns, call your family dental care provider in Lafayette and Broussard, Guilliot Family Dentistry, today.
We have two locations around the Acadiana area for your convenience. If you are in Lafayette, call 337-237-1843 and if you are in Broussard, call 337-252-7333. Our friendly staff will help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve.
Your smile and oral health depend on simple dental care habits. Don’t wait and call or schedule your next visit today!
Resources:
Tips to Keep Teeth Healthy and Cavity Free During Thanksgiving – https://www.charmoydental.com
5 Tips to Keep Your Smile Healthy This Thanksgiving – https://www.didriksendental.com
Expert Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy This Thanksgiving – https://www.oralsurgeryofutah.com
Don’t Go Cold Turkey on Your On Your Oral Hygiene This Thanksgiving – https://www.auroradentist.com
Tips for Good Oral Hygiene and Health Smiles – https://www.dentistry.uic.edu
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