National Cookie Day is observed Dec. 4, giving you and your family a reason to make the holiday season a little sweeter. Although many people wonder about how their snacking habits might be impacting their teeth, your dentist can explain that some foods are less harsh on dental enamel than others. Here is a little more information on the cookies that are best and worst for your teeth and how dentists recommend preventing problems. 

Decoding Cookies and Dental Care

Which Cookies Are Good and Bad for Your Teeth? 

Although many people may lump all sugar varieties under the same umbrella, they are different chemically, which alters the way they impact your smile. For instance, dental researchers have found that sucrose, which is common table sugar, is especially dangerous for the teeth, since the substance forms sticky glycoproteins that perpetuate tooth decay. For this reason, cookies made with common table sugar tend to be more problematic for dental health. However, some sweeteners are less problematic to teeth, and some can even be beneficial. Dried fruits such as raisins have also been shown to be gentle to the teeth, since they don’t contain sucrose but contain phytochemicals that fight the bacteria that causes gum disease and cavities.

What Else Can You Do to Help Your Smile? 

In addition to enjoying cookies made with wholesome ingredients, protect your smile by drinking a glass of milk along with them. Research has shown that milk contains protective caseins that create a protective film on the surface of the teeth, protecting against decay. Additionally, dentists recommend brushing and flossing your teeth carefully after holidays, since fine particulates can gather to create plaque and tartar. 

You and your teeth deserve to be pampered, so in addition to drinking enough milk and focusing on a healthy diet, stop by to see dentist Dr. Terri Brown at Premier Dental. Based out of London, KY, this trusted dental practice focuses on creating a positive experience for their customers by offering amenities like blankets, therapeutic pads, and even ceiling-mounted televisions to make your visit to the dentist as stress-free as possible. Start enjoying dental care on another level today by visiting their website or by calling (606) 877-3002.