BEST DENTAL TIPS FOR A FUN AND HEALTHY THANKSGIVING !
Maintaining good dental health during Thanksgiving can be a challenge with all the delicious, sugary, and acidic foods that are commonly enjoyed. Here are some dental tips to help you have a fun and healthy Thanksgiving:
1. Brush and Floss Before the Feast: Start your day with a thorough brushing and flossing session. This will help remove any existing plaque and food particles, leaving your mouth clean and ready for the day's festivities.
2. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum (preferably with xylitol) can help stimulate saliva production, which aids in neutralizing acids and cleaning the mouth. Consider chewing a piece after your meal.
3. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Try to limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages like sodas, pies, cranberry sauce, and candy. These can contribute to tooth decay and erosion.
4. Choose Wisely: Opt for healthier options when you can. Choose turkey over ham, and vegetables over sugary or starchy side dishes. This not only benefits your teeth but your overall health as well.
5. Stay Hydrated with Water: Water helps rinse away food particles and can help neutralize acids. Drinking water throughout the day can also help control your appetite, so you don't overindulge.
6. Use a Straw: If you do indulge in acidic beverages like cranberry juice or soda, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
7. Moderation is Key: It's okay to enjoy some Thanksgiving treats, but do so in moderation. Don't graze on sugary snacks and drinks throughout the day. Consume them during the mealtime.
8. Wait Before Brushing: If you've consumed acidic foods or drinks, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Acid can soften your enamel temporarily, and brushing immediately can cause damage.
9. Bring Sugar-Free Desserts: If you're hosting or contributing to the meal, consider making sugar-free or low-sugar desserts like fruit salads or yogurt parfaits.
10. Dental Care Supplies: Carry a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss with you if you're away from home for the day. This way, you can freshen up after your meal.
11. Schedule a Dental Checkup: After the Thanksgiving holiday, schedule a dental checkup and cleaning to ensure your oral health is on track.
12. Teach Kids Good Oral Hygiene: Encourage children to brush their teeth and rinse their mouths after eating, and supervise their brushing to ensure they do it properly.
Remember that enjoying Thanksgiving treats in moderation and practicing good oral hygiene will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums while still having a fun and festive holiday.
13. Tackle the Turkey
The turkey is the star of every Thanksgiving meal. Turkey is also good for your patients' teeth since it contains protein and B vitamins necessary for healthy bodily functions. Another benefit is that turkey has no carbohydrates, which means less sugary build-up on your patients' teeth.
Posted by Dr. Gloria Jung, DDS, BSc
From all of us at Lux Dental, we wish you a fun, safe, and happy Thanksgiving holiday!
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