We want to help your family enjoy your Thanksgiving meal without leaving your smile vulnerable to tooth decay and gingivitis. Which is why we have a few tips, from proper brushing and flossing to choosing healthy sides for your meal. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist talks about how to safeguard your smile!
The Link Between Sugar, Starch, and Tooth Decay
When we eat foods high in starch, or consume foods and drinks high in sugar, this leaves behind particles for harmful oral bacteria to break down. The levels of oral acidity in your mouth will rise and your teeth will become coated in plaque buildup. This weakens enamel over time, and could inflame the gum tissues, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. You could also be more likely to develop bad breath and teeth stains. Which is why we recommend a few simple changes to your meal to protect your smile!
Choosing Healthier Options
Sugary foods include pies, cakes, cookies, and sweet potato casserole. Starch rich items are rolls, biscuits, sweet potatoes, and mashed potatoes. You can eat these, but try to balance them with fresh fruit and veggies. Some, like apples, carrots, and broccoli, could help scrub away plaque and food particles as you consume them. Also, be sure to drink water with your meal, as this rinses away sugary particles. Balancing your meal with health options and water could help lower the risk of tooth decay developing in the coming weeks.
Cleaning Your Teeth
Even during the holidays, you need to brush and floss. Start and end each day by brushing teeth for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. This helps strengthen outer enamel and remove harmful particles. You also need to floss every evening, moving the tape up and down each side of every tooth, and dipping below the gum line as well. These actions help smiles of all ages avoid cavities and other oral health issues, staying strong in 2022 and beyond. A visit now for checkup and cleaning could also be beneficial, as you can use your 2021 benefits before they expire, and you can obtain a healthier and brighter smile before the holiday season truly kicks in.
If you have any questions about protecting your smile during the holiday season and beyond, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with our team, then contact us today to learn more.
Talk To Your Kansas City, MO Dentist About Avoiding Cavities
We want your whole family to enjoy your Thanksgiving without increasing your risk of tooth decay, and this is possible with a healthy diet, routine care, and visits to our team twice a year. To find out more about the steps you can take to keep your smile strong, then please contact your Kansas City, MO, dentist, Dr. Murphy, by calling (816) 531-8000.
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