With Thanksgiving coming up, there are probably a million things you can be thankful for. While many of these may include things like family, friends, and good health, you won’t want to forget about your smile. After all, your pearly whites are the very ones allowing you to enjoy your favorite delicious holiday meals. To show your appreciation, here are four oral health tips for taking care of your smile during the festivities.
#1: Stick With Water Instead of Soda or Wine
Many people tend to enjoy a glass of wine or some soda while eating their Thanksgiving meal. While this isn’t always a bad thing, drinking these kinds of beverages too often may not be very smile-friendly. Due to their acidic nature, you can end up increasing the risk of wearing down your enamel, staining your teeth, or developing cavities. Instead, try sipping on water throughout the day to remain hydrated while keeping your smile fresh and bacteria-free.
#2: Minimize Munching on Sugary Treats
Do you like to snack on all the tasty holiday desserts like pumpkin pie or cookies? One or two slices may not be too harmful to your smile, but overindulging in sugary treats throughout the day can spell disaster for your pearly whites. Doing so can easily introduce bacteria, which can raise your chances of tooth decay, cavities, and even an infection. To lower your risk, it’s best to rinse your mouth with clean water right after. After around 20 minutes, be sure to brush and floss your teeth as well.
#3: Eat More Veggies and Protein
Thanksgiving meals can come in all shapes and sizes, and some choices are notorious for being a little on the unhealthy side. Still, certain foods can be more beneficial to you and your smile. For instance, sweet potatoes contain vitamins A, C, and B6, which make them perfect for promoting better oral and overall health. You’ll also want to fill your plate with other cooked veggies, lean meats, and fresh fruits to ensure a more smile-friendly meal.
#4: Keep Travel-Sized Dental Care Products Nearby
If you’re planning on traveling or going out of town during Thanksgiving, you’ll want to make sure to bring travel-sized dental care tools. These should typically include a mini toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash—which can make it much easier for you to practice good oral hygiene while on the go! This way, in case your Thanksgiving feast turns out to be an all-day event, you’ll have the proper tools to keep your teeth fresh and clean at a moment’s notice.
You can enjoy the holidays without putting your smile at risk. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be sure to make the most of your Thanksgiving and the days ahead!
About the Author
Dr. Omid Mehdipour has been delivering exceptional dental care for well over two decades. He’s a proud member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association, and he’s also published his research in leading scientific journals. If you’d like to know more about caring for your teeth during the holidays or wish to schedule a visit, check out our website or call us at 714-520-8888.
