Don’t Leave Your Smile Vulnerable to Holiday Cavities
November 18, 2020
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to meet with friends and family and enjoy a meal together. However, due to the pandemic, your gathering will likely be much smaller this year. But that doesn’t mean your smile is at a lower risk of cavities, as you’ll likely continue to enjoy your usual sugar and starchy fare. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist will explain what you can do to safeguard your smile against cavities.
The Dangers of Sugar and Starch for Your Smile
Sugar and starch are often the main components of your holiday favorites, whether main dishes or sides of desserts. For example, sugar can be found in pies and cakes, as well as cookies, cranberry sauce, and sweet potato casserole. Starch is in stuffing, mashed potatoes, biscuits, muffins, and other popular dishes. These ingredients often become trapped on or between your teeth, left for bacteria to consume. As bacteria break down these particles for fuel, this creates a rise in oral acidity and coats the teeth in plaque. The buildup is then likely to weaken and erode outer enamel and inflame the gingival tissues, boosting the risk of cavities and gum disease in the weeks and months to come.
Healthy Habits at Dinner
To help protect your smile, first practice moderation with dishes high in sugar and starch. When you do enjoy them, drink a glass of water with them to help cleanse the teeth and gums. Remember that a few fresh fruits and veggies, such as apples, carrots, and broccoli, could help scrub your smile as you eat them. Finally, you can excuse yourself after your meal and floss thoroughly, cleaning each side of every tooth!
Brushing and Flossing (And Cleanings Too)
Good oral hygiene is also essential for a healthy holiday smile. Always make sure you start the day by brushing your teeth for about two minutes, using fluoride toothpaste when you do. We also urge patients to floss every night without fail, as this reaches the bits of food beyond the reach of their toothbrush. Try to schedule a visit for a cleaning before the year ends. We remove all plaque and tartar so you start 2021 with a healthier and brighter smile. You also have a chance to use the rest of your 2020 dental insurance benefits and health savings funds before they expire!
COVID-19
Be sure to wear a mask when around others, and wash your hands frequently. We also suggest avoiding large indoor gatherings when possible to slow the spread!
Do You Have Questions About General Dentistry?
Our team is ready to help patients of all ages protect their teeth from common issues like cavities or gingivitis. To learn more about our treatments to prevent or address cavities, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.