This Thanksgiving, you probably have a lot of things you’re feeling thankful for, but are your teeth on that list? A healthy and happy smile is worth acknowledging, and knowing how to keep your pearly whites in great shape will ensure that you’re showing gratitude to them each and every Thanksgiving moving forward. Continue reading below for four tips from your dentist that will help you show your teeth that you’re truly thankful for all of the hard work they do and benefits they provide for you!
Tip #1. Mind Your Diet
There’s no shortage of delicious foods to chow down on during Thanksgiving, but you should enjoy starchy and sugary items in moderation. Side options like mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, dinner rolls, and other similar items can contribute to tooth decay and cavities when eaten in excess. If you can, opt for teeth-friendly options like turkey, cooked vegetables, and fruits. These choices not only contribute to your overall health, but also promote good oral hygiene! On a related note, while indulging in Thanksgiving desserts, be mindful of the sugar! Limit your intake of pies, candies, and other sweets to protect your pearly whites from cavities and decay.
Tip #2. Drink Plenty of Water
In addition to all of the featured food during Thanksgiving, all sorts of beverages with sugars and acids also make an appearance: apple ciders, hot chocolates, eggnog, and all sorts of cocktails. Needless to say, these drinks can be just as bad for your teeth and gums as sugary and starchy foods. If you can, you should opt to drink water as often as possible during Thanksgiving; before your meal, with your meal, and after your meal if possible! Water is by far the best beverage for your oral health, since it can wash away lingering food debris while also stimulating your mouth’s flow of saliva, which provides you with cavity protection.
Tip #3. Brush Before Bed
It’s important to commit to brushing your teeth twice a day, but especially crucial to brush before you go to bed after eating a big Thanksgiving dinner. If you go to sleep without brushing, you’re giving leftover food particles and bacteria several uninterrupted hours to wreak havoc inside your mouth. This can greatly increase your risk of oral health issues like cavities and gum disease. You’ll be doing yourself a major favor if you brush after dinner, no matter how sleepy you feel!
Tip #4. See Your Dentist Soon
Even though your dentist’s office might be closed on Thanksgiving, you should still find time to schedule an appointment with them soon for routine preventive care, especially if you haven’t attended your second checkup this year! Your dentist has the means to ensure that your teeth aren’t just clean, but also safeguarded from oral health concerns that still might be in the early stages. The last thing you should want to happen to your teeth during the holiday is for an unexpected issue to cause you grief!
Your teeth do so much for you! By incorporating these tips into your Thanksgiving routine, you can show them the gratitude they deserve and ensure a healthy, radiant smile for many more Thanksgivings!
About the Practice
The talented team at Danville Dental Associates has proudly served patients and families in the Danville and Chatham communities for several years, offering a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to arrange a visit for you or a loved one, feel free to contact the practice online to find the office closest to you!