It’s officially that magical time of the year everyone looks forward to – the holiday season! Many people are excited to spend these coming weeks sharing gratitude, reconnecting with loved ones, and (of course) feasting on delicious food. Although your belly may be satisfied with all the seasonal treats and meals, you can put your oral health at risk if you’re not careful. With that in mind, a dentist in Midlothian has compiled a list of holiday foods you should enjoy in moderation to protect your smile.
Stuffing
When you think of stuffing, it only makes sense that you’d think of it as a Thanksgiving staple. Some may even argue that the holiday dinner is not complete without this tasty dish. Although it’s not particularly high in sugar, it’s still surprisingly bad for your teeth because of all the starch. Overconsumption can contribute to plaque buildup and lead to cavities. Like sugary foods, it promotes the accumulation and growth of bacteria that feed on the sugars that the starches are broken down into. This process results in the secretion of harmful acids that wear down the enamel on your teeth.
Candy Canes
It may come as no surprise to hear that candy canes are essentially pure sugar. They’re composed primarily of sucrose (a common table sugar) and high fructose corn syrup. Every time you eat something sweet, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the particles, producing acid that attacks the enamel. It leaves your pearly whites at risk of cavities, decay, and even gum disease. That said, it’s best to only eat candy canes in moderation.
Eggnog
Eggnog is certainly an acquired taste. Some like it while others don’t. However, because this drink is sugary and contains alcohol, it’s not the greatest choice for your teeth. But like most things, indulging in it occasionally won’t destroy your oral health. Still, it’s a good idea to opt for something sugar-free like gin and tonic instead for the sake of your pearly whites.
Dried Fruit
Fresh fruits are a delicious, sweet, nutritious snack. However, dried fruit is not as healthy for your oral and overall health. Since it’s chewy, it tends to stick easily to the surfaces of teeth, providing nourishment for cavity-causing bacteria. To keep your smile safe, consider reaching for fresh fruit whenever possible.
Sugary Baked Goods
Even though baked goods like cookies, pies, and cakes are not the best for your health, you’ll still see plenty of them during the holiday season. It might seem impossible to avoid these foods during this time of the year, but you should try your best to consume them only in moderation. Otherwise, you can put your smile at increased risk of cavities, decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Don’t forget to protect your smile this season. By watching your intake of these holiday foods, you can ensure your oral health remains in optimal condition!
About the Practice
At Marvel Dental, we use the latest technologies, techniques, and materials to ensure our patients receive the best treatment possible. Our team strives to deliver exceptional dental care beyond what’s anywhere else. For more holiday tips, visit our website or call (682) 772-3072.