Sugar is one of the most common ingredients you’ll find in holiday foods. The sweets always seem to dominate, no matter where you look. However, starches, acids, and even the texture of these meals and snacks can be just as harmful to your teeth. With this information, you may wonder how you’re supposed to navigate the holidays and avoid a dental emergency. Keep reading to discover which foods you may want to avoid so that you don’t end up in the treatment chair.
What Happens to Teeth During the Holidays?
The holidays make it easier to consume an array of sweets and other similar treats that you may not get to enjoy the rest of the year. Unfortunately, the increased exposure means you’re more likely to indulge in foods that are known to wreak havoc on your teeth.
When sugar and starch adhere to your tooth enamel, bacteria build up and create plaque. If this happens, it will begin to break down the enamel, causing cavities to form.
Which Foods Can Increase Your Risk for Dental Damage?
As you prepare to fill your plate or reach for a snack this holiday season, you may want to think twice about your options if you’d rather avoid the emergency dental office. The following foods are ones you should avoid or be mindful of when eating:
- Hot cocoa and cider are delicious, but they increase the risk of bad bacteria forming inside your mouth, allowing tooth decay and cavities to form.
- Wine should be enjoyed alongside a glass of water to keep your salivary glands working. This will prevent the alcohol from drying out your mouth and making it easier for bacteria to form.
- Peppermint candies are hard, so if you bite down, you might accidentally break a tooth or develop a crack that requires restorative treatment.
- Toffee and caramel are sticky and can easily remain attached to your chewing surfaces. This allows bacteria to form in the pits and grooves of these teeth, raising the risk of cavities and painful toothaches.
Instead of indulging in these potentially harmful food options, consider snacking on or eating nuts, cheese, dark chocolate, gingerbread, and drinking plenty of water.
You deserve to look and feel your best this time of year, so make sure you practice moderation and be cautious so that you avoid an emergency dental visit.
About the Author
Dr. Deval Parmar has more than 13 years of experience in the dental field and cares deeply about the health and well-being of her patients. Complete with an honest and ethical approach, her compassionate demeanor makes it easy for individuals to feel comfortable and at ease while in her care. When providing preventive treatment to minimize cavities and other similar dental problems, she offers helpful tips to make eating, especially during the holidays, less risky for smiles. If you need help to better understand what you can do to avoid a dental emergency this season, contact us at (972) 972-4646.