It’s hard enough trying to avoid substantial weight gain during the holidays, but the struggle becomes even more real when you consider how your smile might also be affected. As you prepare to navigate the Thanksgiving table this year, consider the following holiday oral health tips that can help you take better care of your teeth and gums while also enjoying some of your favorite foods.
Trade Wine for Water
When you look around the table, you may notice that everyone seems to be enjoying a glass of wine. Instead of following the crowd, give your teeth a break by opting for water instead. Far more hydrating than alcohol, soda, or juice, water is a great alternative that helps to flush out existing debris inside the mouth and keeps salivary glands producing at an optimal level.
If you can’t say no to just one glass of wine, make sure that you have a glass of water nearby so that you can take a sip regularly to keep the tannins (if it is red wine) from wreaking havoc on your teeth.
Add Plenty of Protein and Veggies to Your Plate
As you contemplate how you plan to get everything onto your plate, step back and rethink your strategy. Are candied yams and cheesy potatoes delicious? Absolutely. Do they need to take up half your plate? No. Having a small scoop of each is enough to satisfy your craving, and it allows you to fill up on protein and vegetables. Passing up on turkey, ham, roasted vegetables, and your grandma’s famous broccoli casserole is unfathomable, so make sure these make up the majority of what you consume this Thanksgiving.
Not to mention, protein and veggies don’t contain high amounts of sugars or starch, and they act like natural toothbrushes to rid teeth of any bacteria. They also help to improve gum health and combat decay!
Don’t Neglect Your Oral Hygiene Routine
After eating your fill of turkey and other delicious holiday foods, make sure that you take care of your smile before going to bed. Brushing your teeth for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste as well as flossing and rinsing can help to eliminate any food particles and bad bacteria from your mouth, preventing them from sitting on your teeth all night.
Enjoy Thanksgiving this year with family and friends! By taking these proactive steps, it will pay off greatly as you enjoy a healthier smile in the new year.
About the Author
Dr. Khushboo Gandhi is a trusted dentist in Murphy who has more than a decade of experience working in dentistry and is here to help patients suffering from tooth loss achieve healthier, fully functional smiles. Offering preventive dentistry to help individuals take better care of their teeth and gums, we strive to offer valuable tips and tricks to make navigating the holidays easier and less overwhelming. Visit our website or call (972) 532-6506 to learn more.