Good Bad & Surprising Holiday Foods for Oral Health
The holiday season is filled with delicious treats and comforting meals. However, most people have no idea that many of these indulgences, even the healthier ones, could take a toll on your teeth and gums. Cabral & Teixeira Family Dental Practice explore how holiday foods affect your oral health and what you can do to protect your smile.
Holiday Foods That Aren’t So Merry for Teeth
From sticky caramels to sugar-dusted cookies, classic holiday goodies are notoriously bad for oral health.
Sugary snacks feed harmful bacteria in your mouth, leading to plaque buildup and cavities. Dried fruits, often mistaken for a healthier option, can be just as harmful because of their high sugar content and sticky texture, which clings to teeth.
Even acidic beverages like wine and cider can weaken enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay. Hard candies and nuts, while festive, pose a risk of chipping or cracking teeth if you’re not careful.
Healthier Options Can Still Cause Harm
You might think swapping sweets for healthier choices is a safe bet, but some options still pose risks.
According to your Turlock family dentist citrus fruits, like oranges and grapefruits, are rich in vitamins but are also highly acidic, potentially. This will erode enamel over time. Crackers and other starchy foods can break down into sugars, fueling bacteria in the mouth.
Choosing Better Holiday Foods for Oral Health
For a smile-friendly holiday, focus on foods that support oral health. Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery act as natural toothbrushes, helping to scrub away plaque while stimulating saliva production to neutralize acids.
Cabral & Teixeira recommend cheese and yogurt as they are rich in calcium and help strengthen teeth. In addition, when enjoying sweets, try to eat them as part of a meal rather than as a snack. Drinking water afterward can help rinse away food particles and acids as well.
Protect Your Oral Health with a Turlock Dentist
The holidays are a busy time, but don’t let the festivities distract you from taking care of your oral health.
Schedule a checkup with Cabral & Teixeira Family Dental Practice, where Dr. Luis Teixeira and Dr. Ruth Cabral offer personalized care to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Whether you need a routine cleaning or advice on protecting your smile during the holidays, this family dentist in Turlock is here to help.
Remember, your holiday treats should bring joy, not dental issues. Schedule your appointment in Turlock today.
