The holidays are almost here! No matter what you are celebrating this season, you are probably looking forward to some of your favorite holiday foods to fill your stomach. However, they all affect your smile in one way or another. Even if you brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups, making the right choices regarding what you are putting into your body is crucial for optimal oral health. Here are some of the worst and best holiday foods for your smile.
Worst Holiday Foods for Your Teeth
As delicious as some of these holiday foods are, they can leave you with some negative consequences in your mouth:
- Eggnog: This is a holiday favorite for many, but your teeth are not a fan. This is because the sugar content in this beverage is so high, it can cause you to experience increased tooth decay. Alcohol can cause dry mouth when consumed too much.
- Candy Canes: These minty treats are delicious and can even be decorative when left to hang on the Christmas tree. However, when you’re sucking on them for a long period of time, you are exposing your teeth to all of the sugar. This means additional cavities in the future.
- Chocolate: Milk chocolate contains a lot of sugar. In your mouth, this turns to acid and will work to dissolve the protective layer of enamel on your teeth. Ultimately, you are more likely to experience cavities. Fortunately, darker chocolate doesn’t cause as much harm. If you’re craving something chocolatey, the darker the better.
Best Holiday Foods for Your Teeth
Instead of indulging in the sugary treats listed above, have some of the following this holiday season:
- Turkey: There is no need to feel guilty about your turkey feast. Turkey is non-fermentable, so it won’t stimulate cavity-causing responses in the mouth. It also contains phosphorus which works with calcium in order to give you strong teeth.
- Nuts: Don’t let your nutcracker just sit there and get dusty. Nuts contain all sorts of nutrients like magnesium and iron, and they supply you with a healthy dose of calcium. Nuts also stimulate saliva flow which will help to keep the harmful bacteria away.
- Cheese: Get the cheese platter ready! Since cheese is antibacterial and it has a lower pH level than your mouth, it helps to lower acidity. Most cheeses are and excellent source of calcium as well.
This holiday season, keep your smile in mind. By being aware and making smart decisions about the foods that you eat, you can start the new year with excellent oral health!
About the Practice
At Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry, you have two well experienced dentist providing quality care to their patients in Orange Park. Dr. Steven Crovatto and Dr. Megan Edwards both earned their Doctor of Dental Medicine degrees from the University of Florida. For more information on maintaining a healthy smile or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (904) 272-0800.