Protecting Your Smile During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a great time to get together with family and enjoy a good meal together. However, many of our holiday favorites tend to be high in sugar and starch. Which is why in today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist explains how your family can take steps to help lower your risk of cavities following your Thanksgiving feast.

Choosing Healthy Options

First, be sure to choose a few healthy options to round out your plate. Try to consume a few fresh veggies and fruits. Not only do these have essential vitamins and nutrients, but rougher ones like carrots and broccoli could help scrub away food particles and plaque. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water, as this helps cleanse your mouth as you eat. You can still enjoy your favorite items, but doing so in moderation and also enjoying safe and healthy options is helpful in the fight against cavities.

The Impact and Sugar and Starch

Many of our favorite holiday desserts are high in sugar, such as pies, cakes, or cookies. Others contain a lot of starch, such as sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, rolls, and biscuits. Sugar and starch tend to cling to the teeth and are left for bacteria to break down. When this happens, the level of oral acidity in your smile rises and the teeth become coated in plaque buildup. The buildup worsens with time and could lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease, as well as a higher risk of stained teeth and bad breath. Which is why moderation is key when it comes to items high in these two ingredients.

Be Sure to Brush and Floss

You can also safeguard your smile with routine care each day. Even if you’re out of town or enjoy the holiday, you need to brush and floss daily. You should brush twice a day for two minutes, and also use a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen the outer enamel. Flossing before bed is essential too, as this removes what is beyond a toothbrush’s reach. You could even consider excusing yourself right after your meal to floss in the bathroom. Finally, be sure you see us for a checkup and cleaning! You can schedule one now and use your 2021 dental benefits before they expire at the end of December.

Do You Have Questions About Your Smile?

With the right steps, our team can help you and your family maintain good oral health. If you would like to learn more about protecting your oral health during the holidays, then schedule a consultation today by contacting Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327.