With the air getting chillier and the festive spirit growing around town, you know it’s the magical holiday season. Families across the country are excited to gather and spend quality time together. One of the highlights of this time of year is enjoying plenty of delicious meals. While thinking about what you’re grateful for, be sure to keep your pearly whites in mind. Read on to learn several ways to show appreciation for your teeth this Thanksgiving!
Pick Your Foods Wisely
From turkey and ham to stuffing and cranberry sauce, there are plenty of delicious foods to choose from during the holiday season. However, some treats can be harmful to your smile over time. To avoid oral health complications or an emergency dental visit, be sure to limit your consumption of hard and crunchy foods. You should also refrain from overindulging in sugary snacks, as they can increase your risk of bacteria and cavities. Try sticking with healthier options like lean proteins, leafy greens, and healthy fats.
Stay Hydrated with Water
You’re likely to enjoy sipping on various staple beverages during Thanksgiving, such as hot chocolate, mulled wine, and eggnog. Though these are enjoyable, you’ll want to still keep yourself hydrated with lots of water. Not only is this healthier for your overall well-being, but this will also help wash away any food particles and bacteria that can cause problems later on. Drinking water also helps stimulate saliva flow, which is essential for neutralizing any acids in your mouth.
Remember to Brush Before Bedtime
After a long day of eating turkey and spending quality time with your family, you may be tempted to simply flop on your bed and sleep. However, you should always brush, floss, and rinse your teeth beforehand. If not, you can end up allowing leftover food matter and harmful debris to settle overnight. If you want to avoid bacteria growth and decay, be sure to practice good oral hygiene throughout the holiday season.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings
Visiting your dentist every six months is one of the best ways to show appreciation for your pearly whites. Not only will they provide a thorough polishing, but they’ll also monitor your mouth and address any developing problems they might detect. This way you can prevent any serious issues and avoid dental emergencies altogether.
Don’t forget to give thanks to your teeth this holiday season with these few tips. They’ll ensure that you can enjoy a happy and healthy smile during Thanksgiving and beyond!
About the Author
Dr. Hal M. Lippard earned his dental degree from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis. He also regularly pursues continuing education to expand his expertise and skills. He provides a wide range of high-quality and comprehensive services, including dental checkups/cleanings, fillings, gum disease therapy, and root canal therapy. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call him at 434-293-9311.