The holiday season will be here before you know it, and you have so many fun activities planned for your family. Whether your favorite activity is to put up twinkling lights around your house, listen to festive music, or do some holiday baking, there is something for everyone to enjoy! However, you don’t want to come out of the holiday season with cavities. Here are some seasonal treats that you should be especially wary of for the sake of your smile.
Eggnog
For many, this beverage is a bit too sweet for their liking. However, others would say that the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without this sugary treat. It only takes a little bit of time to gather the ingredients and make it from scratch, and it can satisfy your sweet tooth. The issue is that this drink is full of sugar which can lead to tooth decay and other oral health issues if you aren’t careful. If you like to spike your glass with a shot of brandy or bourbon, you could be looking at dry mouth as well. Be sure to only have this item in moderation and use a straw to limit contact with the teeth. If you want a more tooth-friendly adult beverage, try having a gin and tonic or stick to light beer.
Candy Canes
They are minty and refreshing, but candy canes are made almost completely from sugar. They are primarily composed of sucrose, which is common table sugar, and high fructose corn syrup. If you suck on too many of these, you are at higher risk for tooth decay. You should certainly keep these sweet treats to a minimum.
Baked Goods
Sugary cookies and other baked goods aren’t so great for your health, but they are EVERYWHERE this time of year. If you would prefer a cavity-free mouth, it’s definitely advised to enjoy these sweets only in moderation. Whenever you do have one, brush your teeth about 30 minutes afterward.
Stuffing
This may be the perfect starchy side with your preferred protein. Whether you enjoy chicken, turkey, ham, or something else, a scoop of stuffing complements its flavor like nothing else. The issue with stuffing is that it is very carb heavy. Carbohydrates turn to sugar in the mouth. Ultimately, stuffing is no better for your teeth than sugary sweets are. Keep your portion size small. Instead, stock up on vegetables and protein.
You don’t want the holiday season to leave you with a toothache. By being mindful of the foods listed above, you can approach 2023 with a healthy smile!
About the Author
Dr. James Kirby is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than a decade. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Tennessee in Memphis where he was awarded the Harold S. Cloogman scholarship for academic performance. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Nashville, visit his website or call (615) 327-2123.