November has arrived and if you’re like nine-in-ten Americans who celebrate Thanksgiving, you’re probably eagerly awaiting the big day. This time of year is perfect for sharing family recipes or indulging in the many spiced flavors of the season. However, if you don’t take the proper precautions, you might end up hurting your smile.
Brushing and flossing your teeth is a great way to increase their resistance to decay, disease, and injuries, but certain foods could potentially harm them regardless. Continue reading to learn about three common culprits to avoid over the holidays to preserve your dental health!
Risky Food #1: Pecan Pie
During autumn, the foods and spices get cozier as the days grow shorter and colder. Everything from your morning brew to your favorite desserts are full of flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger to warm your spirit and your belly.
One popular option this time of year is pecan pie. While indulging in a freshly baked slice might appease your sweet tooth, it won’t do anything to protect it. The nuts in this popular after-dinner item can potentially chip or crack your teeth. Furthermore, it’s full of corn syrup or sugar, which attracts decay and disease-inducing bacteria. Steering clear of this pie can protect your grin into the new year!
Risky Food #2: Candy Canes
What holiday season would be complete without this sweet striped treat? They come in many colors and flavors and can be found on store shelves nationwide. Whether you prefer the traditional mint wrapped in red and white or fruity tastes in a rainbow of shades, you’re sure to find an option you enjoy.
Unfortunately, you might also injure your teeth! Hard candies attract germs that can wear down your enamel, and biting into them can break or fracture a tooth. If you want to keep your grin looking and feeling great, opt for dark chocolate that melts in your mouth and contains less sugar.
Risky Food #3: Cranberry Sauce
One of the first things people notice about you is your smile, and if you want yours to look bright and healthy for your holiday photos, you might want to skip the cranberry sauce this year! It’s highly acidic and can wear down the protective outer layer of your teeth, leaving them vulnerable to disease, decay, and injuries.
Furthermore, this fruit’s deep red pigment can cling to your enamel and leave it looking worse for wear. To avoid staining your teeth, be sure to drink plenty of water to rinse away darkly pigmented particles after eating this popular side dish.
Option for more wholesome menu items can keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition this Thanksgiving!
About the Author
Dr. Kelly Thanh has 25+ years of experience helping people of all ages transform their smiles. She earned her DDS from the University of the Pacific and achieved the Hiossen Implant Master Certification at the Redwood City Implant Institute. Today, she’s a member of several prestigious organizations, like the American Dental Association, so you know your grin is in good hands. She combines a caring and compassionate approach with state-of-the-art technology to improve your comfort while delivering accurate results intended to last. If you need a checkup, you can request an appointment on the website or call (408) 972-2835.