The holidays are upon us, and many of us are preparing to celebrate with family gatherings that involve consuming all our favorite seasonal foods.
But with all the excitement, it’s easy to overlook the impact that certain of these foods can have on your teeth. At our Novato family dentist office, we want you to enjoy the holidays in a way that doesn’t compromise your oral health.
Below are 4 delicious holiday foods that are so delicious, but can also be bad for your dental health.
- Popcorn – Popcorn is a holiday favorite, but at this time it can be drenched with caramel for a sweet, satisfying treat. You don’t necessarily have to pass on popcorn, but be aware that the kernels can get stuck in between your teeth, and are often difficult to remove. As a result, they can lead to bacterial growth and other complications. If you indulge, rinse your mouth and floss as soon as possible.
- Deeply-Colored Foods – Some deeply-colored foods can be very healthy, like beets or curry. But the downside is that these types of foods can quickly stain your teeth. Remember to immediately rinse your mouth with warm water or a mouthwash after you consume these foods during your holiday feast.
- Carbonated Sugary Drinks – Consumption of carbonated drinks has increased dramatically, but the sugar in these drinks linger in your mouth and form
acid that eats away at dental enamel and leads to decay. Try substituting with water or water-infused fruit juice to quench your thirst and keep your teeth healthy.
- Tomato Products (Ketchup, Hot Sauce, Pasta Sauce) – The acidity level of tomato products can soften the enamel of your teeth, resulting in increased tooth sensitivity. This process can also lead to tooth decay. Tooth enamel is also prone to stains due to the dark color of tomato sauces. Adding water to the sauce can help decrease acidity levels.
Please Call for More Information
The Novato family dentist is committed to providing you with all the information you need to keep your smile healthy. Please don’t hesitate to call us to learn more!