You probably have a lot of things you’re feeling thankful for this time of year, but are your pearly whites on that list? After all, they do a lot for you; whether they’re helping you talk, laugh, or eat, they deserve your thanks! Here’s more from your dentist in Kansas City about why you should be thankful for your teeth this holiday season and how you can repay them by taking care of them.
1. Watch What You Eat
Let’s face it—there are practically endless awesome things to chow down on during the holiday season. It’s hard to resist the tempting aroma of a freshly baked pumpkin or pecan pie, but you should enjoy sugary and starchy items alike in moderation. These things can contribute to tooth decay and cavities when eaten in excess, so ease back on the side options too like mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, and more. That said, be sure you’re also consuming plenty of lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs to offset any unhealthy nutritional choices.
2. Drink Plenty of Water & Enjoy Sugary Beverages in Moderation
From apple cider and mulled wine to eggnog and hot cocoa, there are also plenty of festive drinks to enjoy all throughout the holidays! And while it’s hard to resist indulging in some of these beverages every once in a while, you should stick to water as often as possible. Water is the absolute best beverage for your oral health, as it stimulates your mouth’s natural flow of saliva, which is your mouth’s first line of defense against cavity-causing bacteria.
3. Brush Your Teeth Before Going to Sleep
It’s important to brush twice a day, but especially crucial to brush before you go to bed after eating a big holiday meal. If you go to sleep without brushing your teeth, 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 tooth decay and gum disease. Also don’t forget to floss and rinse with mouthwash!
4. Visit Your Dentist for Routine Preventive Care
You should visit your dentist twice a year for routine care, and there’s no time like the holiday season to show your teeth a little love and have them cared for by a professional! Your dentist has the means and expertise for ensuring that your teeth aren’t just clean, but also in the clear and protected from oral health concerns that still might be in the early stages.
You should be thankful for your teeth every day of the year—they do a lot for you! By following these four tips, you can ensure that you’re looking out for them and helping them stay as healthy and bright as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Michael C. Byars and his team have proudly served patients and families in Kansas City for several years. Dr. Byars received his DDS from the University of Missouri at Kansas City and is an active member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit this holiday season, you can contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (816) 781-8222.