This is the time of year where you focus on counting your blessings and spending time with your family. It’s also the time when you’re likely to be putting your smile at risk due to all of the different foods that you’re indulging in. It’s important not to let today’s satisfying meal become tomorrow’s devastating cavities. With the right precautions, you can enjoy a happy, healthy Thanksgiving without needing to make an emergency appointment with your dentist in Oklahoma City. Here are 4 tips to keep in mind when preparing for the holiday feast.
1. Be Mindful of How Much Sugar You’re Eating
You may have heard it often enough to be cliché, but eating too much sugar can very easily lead to tooth decay. When the bacteria in your mouth are exposed to sugar, they secrete acids that slowly but surely eat through enamel, eventually leading to dental problems. Many traditional Thanksgiving foods, such as pumpkin pie or the marshmallows on sweet potatoes, contain high amounts of sugar. You don’t have to avoid these treats altogether, but you should definitely make an effort to keep your sugar intake as low as possible throughout the day. Make sure that you’re rinsing your mouth with water regularly, as this can help wash away any sugar that remains on your teeth and gums.
2. Stay Away from Red Wine or Fruit Juice
Red wine and fruit juice both have a negative impact on your oral health in various ways. First of all, these beverages are acidic and will break down the enamel protecting your teeth. Second, sugary fruit juice increases the risk of cavities while alcoholic wine dries up the saliva that helps keep your mouth clean. Finally, they have a tendency to stain the teeth, giving your smile a darkened appearance. If you have a choice, make an effort to drink more water instead of these potentially harmful drinks.
3. Think About What You’re Putting in Your Mouth
Hard, sharp foods such as chips, nuts, and hard candies can damage the gums, chip the teeth, and may damage crowns and other dental work. Sticky foods have a tendency to stay on the teeth, meaning the sugars they contain stay in your mouth for much longer periods of time. Be sure that you understand the possible risks posed by the foods you eat and plan your meals accordingly.
4. Be Wary of Continuous Eating
We tend to eat more often around the holidays, and that can have unseen consequences for your dental health. The more you eat, the more chances you give harmful bacteria and plaque to accumulate in your mouth. It’s best to stick to designated eating times instead of snacking throughout the day. Also, don’t forget to brush on a regular basis.
As comforting as it is to know that “there’s a good dentist near me”, your smile will always be better off if you protect it from oral health issues altogether. If you have any concerns about your smile before Thanksgiving, now’s the time to get in touch with your dentist so that you’re well-prepared for the celebration.
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Mitchell earned his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma. He loves being a dentist because it gives him a chance to develop friendships with many different people and change their lives by improving their smiles. From regular preventive dentistry to emergency dental care, he always makes sure that his patients receive the highest quality care. To schedule a holiday appointment at his practice, Mitchell Smile Design, visit his website or call (405) 755-2670.
