It’s that time of the year again. Lots of parties and lots of holiday foods that you shouldn’t be eating. But, hey, it’s the holidays so why not enjoy right?
While the holidays are meant to enjoy the good things in life, those good things aren’t always the best for your teeth. In fact, some can be downright dangerous.
Not So Great Holiday Foods for Teeth
Dr. George Dental understands the temptations are hard to resist, but when you do, you’ll be rewarded with fewer dental visits in the New Year.
Holiday Foods and Chewy Yummies
Gummy bears and other chewy candy will have a tendency to rip the restorations straight out of the tooth. In addition, they are loaded with sugar much like most holiday foods.
If not damaging your fillings or crowns, they are remaining between teeth eating away at the enamel.
Dr. George Sanchez recommends that you avoid gummies, salt water taffy and other soft chewy candies that don’t look safe. This includes those oh so trendy sour chewy rainbow strips in your favorite flavors.
Dried Fruit and Holiday Foods
That dried fruit that your favorite client sends you every year isn’t the best option for your teeth. Dried mangos, apricots, figs and dates are delicious, but best these holiday foods are best enjoyed in moderation.
Dried fruit will stick to the backs of your teeth eroding away the enamel. Unless you are able to rinse with water right away your teeth will pay the price.
Your dentist in Delray Beach recommends eating your favorite dried fruit as part of a meal to avoid tooth and restoration damage.
Spritz Acidic Holiday Drinks
Your favorite spritzy mixer is not the best option for teeth. Red Bull, Champagne and cranberry juice may be your favorite beverage during the holidays, but it isn’t the safest option for teeth.
Soda, energy drinks and sports drinks are loaded with sugar as is the cranberry juice. Unless you are making your own juice from the berry there will always be additional sugar.
The acid in the drinks eats away at the enamel on your teeth as well making soda, energy and sports drinks double trouble for teeth and gums.
Great Treats for Teeth
Instead of chewy candy and dried fruit try munching on carrot sticks and celery. Enjoy sweet and savory dips and you’ll barely miss bad holiday foods for teeth.
Drink water or diluted fruit juices instead of soda, energy and sports drinks for healthy teeth.
If you drink water resist the urge to overdo it with the citrus slices as citrus damages teeth.
If you would like to learn more about the holidays and healthy teeth, schedule an appointment with Dr. George Dental today.