The holiday season is right around the corner, and for many this means the number of sugary, fatty, and carb-heavy foods they’ll be consuming will be through the roof. While these treats are known to impact overall health, it’s crucial to recognize their potential harm to dental well-being as well. Keep reading as we highlight five holiday foods and drinks that should be approached with caution or enjoyed in moderation to safeguard your teeth from potential damage.
#1: Candy
Butterscotch, candy canes, and other hard candies popular around the holiday season are basically pure sugar. They also contain high fructose corn syrup, a modified starch that can draw minerals from the teeth. This dual impact creates favorable conditions for harmful bacteria and acids to erode tooth enamel, ultimately contributing to decay. Sugar-free alternatives are a wiser choice for your beam.
#2: Dried Fruit
The sticky nature of holiday candies allows them to adhere to the surfaces of your teeth, providing a constant source of nourishment for oral bacteria that contribute to cavity formation. To mitigate this risk, consider opting for fresh fruit as a substitute whenever possible. Not only does this offer a healthier alternative, but the natural sugars in fruit are less likely to cling to your teeth.
#3: Stuffing
Stuffing is little more than bread and herbs. Even so, it is surprisingly bad for your pearly whites. This is because it’s made primarily of carbohydrates, which are converted into sugar in the mouth during digestion. This provides food for oral bacteria. Additionally, starchy foods promote the growth of the oral bacteria that feed on these sugars.
To promote better dental health during the holiday season, consider replacing stuffing with tooth-friendly options such as roasted vegetables like carrots and broccoli. This not only enhances the nutritional value of your meal but also minimizes the impact on oral health.
#4: Baked Goods
Indulging in baked goods during the holidays can pose challenges for dental health due to their high sugar and carbohydrate content. These sweet treats can contribute to the proliferation of harmful bacteria in the mouth, potentially leading to tooth decay.
To mitigate the impact on your teeth, it’s advisable to consume baked goods in moderation. Additionally, consider drinking water or brushing your teeth after enjoying these treats to eliminate residual sugar and minimize the risk of dental issues. This simple practice can help maintain a healthier balance during the festive season.
#5: Eggnog
Eggnog’s high sugar content poses a threat to dental health, while alcohol can also have negative effects. Practicing moderation when consuming eggnog or other alcoholic drinks is essential for maintaining good oral health. Opting for sugar-free alternatives, like a gin and tonic, can be a better choice if you want to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without compromising your teeth.
About the Practice
At St. Albans Dental, Dr. Simran Saini and Dr. Tyler Aten lead a dedicated team devoted to providing outstanding and efficient oral health services. They can assist you in preventing or addressing oral health issues and offer valuable tips on maintaining healthy teeth during the holiday season. Whether you’re a new patient or a returning one, they take pride in their work and strive to make your visits as pleasant as possible. For appointments or to gather more information about moderating holiday food intake, contact St. Albans Dental at (802) 524-4844 or visit their website.