Share:

The holidays are often a time of indulgence, and while many individuals try to monitor their waistlines, many overlook the impact of decadent foods on their oral hygiene. To protect your teeth, use the guide below to learn which foods you should avoid this thanksgiving. 

Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid to Protect Your Teeth

1. Sugary Cocktails

Cocktails feature numerous ingredients that can affect your oral hygiene. While sugary fruit juices can contribute to tooth decay, carbonated mixers enable plaque to produce acids, which can weaken your tooth enamel. Alcohol can also harm your teeth by contributing to dry mouth and minimizing beneficial saliva production. Saliva has been shown to prevent tooth decay by washing away cavity-causing contaminants like food and plaque, as well as countering acid production and bacterial growth.

2. Dried Fruit

oral hygieneDried fruit, such as those found in seasonal fruit cakes or on snack boards, can be tasty and provide a valuable fiber boost. Unfortunately, they also contain high concentrations of sugar, making dried fruit sticky, which not only makes it harder to remove from your teeth, but it also contributes to plaque production and tooth decay. If you consume dried fruit, consider doing so in moderation and occasionally rinse your mouth with water to remove excess sugars from your teeth and gumline.

3. Starchy Foods

Starchy foods are a staple on most Thanksgiving tables. Although they're traditional, they're also high in starches that can contribute to bacterial growth on your teeth and gums. Like dried fruits, carbohydrate-heavy foods such as stuffing and potatoes can become trapped between your teeth and gumline, which is where they break down and convert to sugars that may then begin to eat away at your enamel. 

 

Ensure the health of your smile this holiday season by visiting Mark Adler DDS in Northfield, OH. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Adler and his team provide a variety of dental services and procedures to help their patients maintain their oral hygiene. Contact them today at (330) 468-3511 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services. 

tracking