The tree is all lit up, the stockings are hung, and the guests are on their way. The last thing you want is a dental emergency ruining your picture-perfect night! Unfortunately, there are five popular holiday foods that can put you at risk of needing an emergency trip to the dentist in Kansas City. Keep reading to find out which favorite treats are on the naughty list, and how to keep your pearly whites safe.
#1: Treats with Sprinkles
Your host may have been hoping for a festive flair, but baked goods with sprinkles should make you say “beware.” These colorful pieces are not only pure sugar, but they are small enough to easily get lodged between teeth. This can quickly accelerate the rate of decay, which may leave you at the dentist come springtime if you’re not careful. Avoid cavities by brushing and flossing between teeth after any holiday treat.
#2: Egg Nog, Wassail, and Cider
There’s something so comforting about settling in beside a blazing fire with a warm cup of holiday cheer in the form of egg nog, wassail, or cider. Unfortunately, these favorite beverages contain a whopping amount of sugar. Do your teeth (and your waistline) a favor and reach for a hot cup of unsweetened herbal tea for the same comforting sensation – without all the sugar.
#3: Cookies and Milk
Santa knows to skip the cookies and milk if he wants to keep his smile free of disease and decay. This classic combination is super-sweet – and if you indulge frequently, you’re setting yourself up for dental trouble. Try to limit your cookie and milk intake this holiday season to the most special occasions only.
#4: Pecan Brittle
Kansans love pecan brittle, and it’s a holiday classic. But this treat is also very hard and leaves you at a big risk of chipping or breaking a tooth. If you must bite into brittle, proceed with caution and chew slowly and carefully. It’s even better if you can avoid it altogether.
#5: Peppermint Sticks
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that candy canes and peppermint sticks are real no-nos this time of year. These red and white treats are made of pure sugar, and biting down on them can land you at the emergency dentist before you can say “Ho ho hooo no.” They are safe to enjoy every now and then, but avoid biting down on that candy cane or peppermint – and be sure to clean your mouth well soon after you indulge.
Remember – this holiday season, keep all good things in moderation. Then, schedule an appointment with your dentist to ensure your teeth are happy, healthy, and clean in the New Year.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Michael C. Byars earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at the University of Missouri – Kansas City and has been practicing privately since 2007. He offers comprehensive dental care from the comfort of a state-of-the-art office, and his patients can always count on him for general advice to help them keep their smiles healthy. Schedule a new patient visit by calling (816) 781-8222 today.