As you congregate around the dinner table this year, think about the teeth that got you here. Without your pearly whites, you would never have smiled quite the same, or eaten all the foods you love. Your life would have been completely different without them! If you’re serious about giving a toast to your teeth, you should be extra good about your oral health this Thanksgiving.
If you’re ready to protect your grin from the onslaught of a Thanksgiving feast, continue reading. You’ll find some great tips for keeping your turkey chompers healthy.
Choose Your Food Wisely
You are what you eat! This can be especially true for your teeth as they obtain their nutrition directly from the food you put in your mouth. Your enamel, the strong outer layer of your teeth is actually porous. This means it’s full of tiny holes you can’t see.
When you chow down on food, these holes absorb the vitamins and minerals that are extracted via saliva. Unfortunately, this also means that if you’re eating a lot of sugar and junk, this can be absorbed too. Choose the food you eat wisely to keep your oral health happy.
Stay On Target with Your Oral Care
Satisfying your oral health needs is more than eating the right things. It’s also about keeping your care routine consistent, even during times of celebration. You may be tempted to let the good times roll and slack off this one time, but that would be a mistake.
Brush your teeth when you wake in the morning. This will fill your enamel with the good minerals in your toothpaste, creating a temporary shield. Then you can enjoy your morning coffee and muffins. Once the day is done and you’ve eaten your fill, brush again before bed. Ensure that you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing for at least two minutes.
Floss Instead of Using Toothpicks
The other half of your oral care routine is flossing. You should floss at least once a day after you brush your teeth before bed. However, during Thanksgiving, you may find yourself needing its help. Toothpicks are rough on your teeth and gums, so keeping dental floss handy at the table is a must.
Hydrate Often
To complete your Thanksgiving protection program, use water to safeguard your teeth. H2O is known as the universal solvent for its ability to break down many different chemicals. This includes the bacteria and plaque on your teeth that build up as you chew your food. It can also dilute and wash away the acid in many Thanksgiving beverages such as wine and soda.
So, if you want to appreciate your teeth this holiday season, use these tips. Your teeth may come away unscathed! If you detect a problem, or if you just want peace of mind, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can give you a checkup and fix any minor problems they find. Happy Thanksgiving, teeth!
About the Practice
At River Station Dentistry, Dr. Andrew Hale and Dr. Sally Bishko are your professional dental team. They share a passion for helping patients escape pain and receive a bright smile they love. They’re invested in their patients, using the latest dental technology to make your treatment comfortable, efficient, and affordable. To schedule an appointment, call (802) 223-2244 or visit the website to discover other services.