Are you concerned that your favorite Thanksgiving foods are putting you at risk for cavities? Even casual observers of Thanksgiving can make room at their dinner table for a few seasonal staples. If you want to know how much trouble the holiday might cause for your oral health, think about how much sugar and starchy food you are putting on your plate. As with any other foods, holiday foods that are sweet, or more likely to cling to teeth, can pose more problems for you than healthier options. Our Rochester, MN dentist’s office is here to help you maintain your oral health, and we are here to provide support if problems with your smile do develop. With that said, remember that the right daily choices can protect you from problems, even at times when you expect to be a little indulgent.
You Should Always Be Mindful Of Your Diet’s Effect On Your Oral Health
While the holiday is a time that inspires us to think more about the foods we enjoy, it is still a time to be mindful of your oral health. Even a short break in your routine can lead to the placement of a dental filling or dental crown at a later date. Just like you should every day, you should think about what you are eating on Thanksgiving if you want to avoid cavities. Limiting sweets and drinking water with your meal will help you make oral health issues less likely after the holiday ends.
What Can You Do To Control Your Holiday-Related Oral Health Risks?
Be sure to stick with healthy meal and snack choices around the holidays, as you can safely assume you will have more indulgent foods to enjoy during any holiday or social events you attend. By doing so, you can offset some of the potential damage that Thanksgiving dinner (and leftovers) might do. Take care to drink water while eating and snacking as well. Water’s ability to wash away food debris can be particularly important when you enjoy starchy, sticky foods that are more likely to stick to your teeth after you eat. If you have not done so already, make sure your next routine dental exam is scheduled so you can receive help protecting your teeth after the holiday.
Make Sure You Also Keep Up With Your Kids’ Oral Health Needs During The Holidays
Adults can be a little irresponsible around the holidays when it comes to dieting, but kids can have an even harder time resisting the different tempting treats available at Thanksgiving. There are actions parents should take if they want their kids to avoid oral health problems. If you are traveling, make sure they have their toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste so that they keep up with good oral hygiene habits. Remind them to be responsible with what they eat, and take care to limit how much dessert they can have.
Your Rochester, MN Dentist’s Office Can Help You Protect Your Smile Throughout The Year!
At Calcagno Cosmetic And Family Dentistry, patients of all ages can count on our support through the year. To learn how we can help you if you experience oral health issues after your holiday meals, call our dentist’s office in Rochester, MN at (507) 281-3659.
