Keep Teeth Healthy This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is that time of the year that brings with it a warm feeling of joy. The smell of the turkey cooking in the oven, the sound of laughter, and the chatter of friends and family all come together to make Thanksgiving the perfect holiday. But, along with the warmth and happiness are tons of food. So, make sure to follow these tips:

Brush and Floss Your Teeth Every Day

Happy Thanksgiving! We hope you have fun and enjoy the holiday with your friends and family. While you’re chowing down on turkey and pumpkin pie, be sure to keep your mouth healthy with these oral care tips.

Make sure you brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day to remove food debris from your teeth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well to get rid of any bacteria that might be causing bad breath. If you can’t remember how long you’ve brushed your teeth, use a stopwatch or set a timer on your phone to remind you when the time is up. You can also ask a family member or friend to help remind you when it’s time to stop brushing. Having someone in the room with you can also help keep you accountable.

Also, make sure you get in the habit of flossing once per day. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles that can get lodged in between teeth. If possible, you should floss before bed to get the most benefit out of flossing.

If you develop any tooth pain after eating your meal, try chewing sugarless gum to relieve some of the discomforts. Sugarless gum is safe to use after meals because it stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth. The added moisture can help wash away leftover food particles and neutralize the acids produced by harmful oral bacteria.

Avoid Sticky, Sugary Foods and Drinks

It’s very easy to overindulge this time of year with holiday treats and festive drinks in hand. The holidays are also a time when many people travel across the country to visit their loved ones. Not having your own toothbrush or toothpaste on hand can lead to cavities popping up in even the most diligent individuals. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help minimize the number of bacteria that can build up in your mouth. But avoiding these foods and drinks altogether is an even better idea for your oral health. Some common culprits include candies like chocolate, caramels, and hard candies. Others include bread, crackers, and chips. It’s not only desserts that are high in sugar; it’s also found in some savory foods like gravy, nuts, and dips. Don’t overdo it on the alcohol, either! Alcohol is a major cause of dry mouth, which can promote the growth of decay-causing bacteria in the mouth. Finally, don’t forget to drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist and saliva flowing. Your dentist in Pleasanton, CA, can give you more tips to care for your teeth this Thanksgiving if you’re ever in doubt.

Chew Sugar-free Gum

Sugar-free gum is a great way to stimulate saliva production, which will help wash away food particles and bacteria on your teeth after eating a big meal like Thanksgiving. You could bring a pack of sugar-free gum with you to your gathering to share with your friends and family – this way, you are sure to stay stocked with a healthy option if you spot yourself from eating something sugary or starchy!

Drink Water While Eating Meals

While drinking a glass of water before your meal can help make you feel fuller, avoid drinking water during a meal as this can lead to frequent sips of water throughout the meal. Sipping on water frequently can dilute the acid in your mouth, which can then allow cavity-causing bacteria to thrive and multiply. Try to avoid beverages like sodas or sweet tea as well, as these can also cause cavities when consumed in excess.

Have regular dental visits

The American Dental Association recommends getting your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year – more often if you are prone to cavities or have other oral health concerns. If you aren’t visiting the dentist this holiday season, make an appointment before the holidays have ended so that your smile can be bright and clean for family gatherings and holiday parties.

Please reach out to our dental practice in Pleasanton, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist in Pleasanton, CA. Please call us at (925) 600-9006 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.