Thanksgiving is a time to pause and remember the friends and family that make our lives meaningful. It is a time to give thanks, take stock of what matters most, and break bread with loved ones. Nothing brings people together like food. Sharing a warm and comforting meal with others can be a sign of love and devotion.
Unfortunately, many of our favorite holiday treats do not promote healthy teeth. How can you indulge and protect your oral health? At Babylon Dental Care, we have a few helpful tips to keep you and your teeth healthy this Thanksgiving.
Tips for Protecting Your Oral Health on Thanksgiving
Just a few simple acts can make a huge difference in your oral health.
Brush and Floss Regularly
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be hard to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Preparing an elaborate meal, welcoming family and friends to town, and shopping for last-minute supplies can get overwhelming. You may feel like you don’t have time to care for yourself. Try and stick to a regular oral health routine and give yourself a few minutes each morning and evening to brush and floss. It is also an excellent time to have some peaceful alone time and engage in quiet reflection.
Drink Lots of Water
Cakes, cookies, candy, and lots and lots of pies! Sweet treats are synonymous with the holiday season, but all that sugar can damage your teeth. In addition to brushing and flossing, drink lots of water and stay hydrated. Water can help flush away food particles and bacteria and prevents rapid, sticky plaque accumulation. Water also helps prevent dry mouth.
Go After the Cheese and Veggie Plate
Indulge in the cheese and veggie plates that are so plentiful around the Thanksgiving holiday. Cheese is a good source of calcium. Calcium is crucial for oral health and strong teeth and bones. Fresh vegetables also provide much-needed vitamins and minerals that help keep our bodies healthy. Plus, chewing on raw vegetables can help increase saliva production and clear the mouth of harmful sugars and bacteria.
Go Easy on Your Teeth
If it is still too early for family or friends to break out of the holiday nutcrackers, look for other ways to enjoy nuts and other hard foods. Never use your teeth to crack open nuts, rip into packages, or open bottle tops. Likewise, leave the turkey bones alone. Never gnaw or chew on bones trying to get at the last scraps of meat. Crunching on hard materials like bones or ice is bad for your teeth and can cause chips or other dental injuries.
Schedule a Post-Holiday Cleaning
Are you concerned about your oral health after a holiday of indulgence? Make a post-Thanksgiving cleaning appointment. A dental provider can clean your teeth and look for any signs of damage or decay. After Thanksgiving is also the perfect time to schedule a cleaning because your dentist can ensure you are ready to smile and look picture-perfect for holiday photos and parties.
Call To Schedule an Appointment Today
Want to protect your oral health this Thanksgiving and get your teeth photo-ready for the holidays? Call Babylon Dental Care at (631) 983-6665 to schedule an appointment with one of our dental practitioners today.