Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and many families are gearing up to indulge in their favorite seasonal recipes. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, there are plenty of fall flavors, dishes, and desserts to enjoy.
However, it’s important to remember to take care of your teeth to prevent a potential problem. If you’re not careful, you might develop a cavity or sustain an injury that results in a dental emergency. Keep reading to learn three easy ways to safeguard your smile while still partaking in your usual autumn festivities!
Thanksgiving Tip #1: Fill Up on Veggies
Many people pass around warm biscuits or buttered bread to enjoy before the main meal starts. Unfortunately, these starchy appetizers break down into sugar in your mouth when they interact with saliva. Plus, they tend to get goopy and stick to your enamel for long periods of time. This attracts harmful bacteria that contribute to various dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and more.
If you’re struggling to turn down those dinner rolls, why not fill your plate with vegetables instead? Whether you scoop two helpings of green beans or sweet potatoes, these side dishes contain ingredients like Vitamins A and C that support strong gums and a healthy mouth.
Thanksgiving Tip #2: Slice Your Meat
Turkey and steak are popular proteins this time of year, but biting down on a bone without paying attention could chip or crack a tooth. Once the enamel is damaged and its structure is compromised, it’s much easier for germs to penetrate and cause an infection. You wouldn’t want to ruin your holiday by having to make an emergency trip to the dentist because you weren’t careful!
Slicing your meat off the bone before diving in ensures you won’t accidentally injure your teeth when you sink them into a juicy morsel.
Thanksgiving Tip #3: Pick Pumpkin Pie
Just when you thought you couldn’t possibly fit another bite of food into your mouth, dinner wraps up, and it’s time for dessert! Pecan pie is a popular offering, but it also contains 31 grams of sugar per slice, which draws harmful bacteria. Furthermore, the hard nuts can lodge themselves between your teeth and become irritating or painful.
Meanwhile, pumpkin pie has less sugar and is loaded with vitamin A to build healthy connective tissues. Plus, you’re not very likely to hurt anything on its soft texture!
By making a few slight alterations to your Thanksgiving menu, you can make the most of the season while maintaining your grin!
About the Practice
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, you and your family benefit from board-certified experts who provide a full array of services under one roof. Dr. Lim and Dr. Perez share 25+ years of combined experience and are comfortable working with people of all ages. Their welcoming environment is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort while increasing the accuracy of treatment results. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, you can request one on the website or call (408) 292-2848.