Whether you’re excited about the festive meals or time with your loved ones, there are plenty of reasons to look forward to Thanksgiving. While you might be grateful for things like good health or job opportunities, you may want to consider giving thanks to your pearly whites. Being able to smile confidently, speak clearly, and eat comfortably just wouldn’t be the same without them. Read on to learn five ways you can preserve your teeth and show them the appreciation they deserve!
#1: Be Cautious with Hard, Chewy, & Sticky Foods
Although snacks like caramel popcorn, chestnuts, and candied pecans are delectable, they can also easily injure your teeth. The last thing you want is to require an emergency dental visit to treat a chipped or cracked tooth during the holidays. To avoid any complications, make sure to be cautious when munching on hard, chewy, and sticky meals.
#2: Pack Your Plate with Veggies
Most people like to fill their plates with a wide variety of tasty foods for Thanksgiving dinner. However, you may want to consider loading your dish with veggies first. Not only will these be delicious, but they’ll also help keep your oral health in tip-top shape. Try eating broccoli salad, green beans, and even roasted Brussels sprouts, which are full of essential nutrients and vitamins.
#3: Drink Plenty of Water
While carbonated beverages or red wine may be staples for Thanksgiving mealtime, you should consider drinking lots of water throughout the day. This will keep you hydrated as well as help naturally wash away food particles and bacteria from your mouth. You’ll be able to avoid dry mouth or allowing harmful germs to collect and grow, increasing your risk of infection.
#4: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Once the festivities are over, you might be tempted to simply jump in bed and get a good rest. However, leaving food particles, debris, and bacteria on your teeth and gums overnight can put you at risk of plaque, gum disease, and oral infection. For this reason, you should brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash regularly, especially after enjoying a hefty meal.
#5: Visit Your Dentist for Checkups & Cleanings
Other than keeping good oral hygiene, you’ll want to schedule dental visits with your dentist every six months. They’ll be able to monitor your oral health and address any developing issues they might detect, such as cavities and gum disease. With early prevention, you’ll be able to keep your teeth clean and healthy while avoiding more serious concerns in the future.
Your teeth are an incredibly important part of your quality of life. By keeping these few tips in mind, you’ll be able to show thanks during Thanksgiving while fully enjoying a healthy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Diana Vazquez received her dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry. She’s also a member of several prestigious organizations like the Academy of General Dentistry and the Hispanic Dental Association. She provides a wide range of high-quality services, including dental checkups/cleanings, periodontal therapy, and emergency dentistry. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call 214-304-2112.