The holidays are quickly approaching, which means that access to sugar will become much easier. Unfortunately, this can be problematic if you are concerned about potential cavities. For decades, dentists have warned patients about the dangers of eating too much sugar; however, if you have a sweet tooth, you may be tempted to take your chances. Fortunately, there is a way to reduce your risk and still enjoy a few delectable treats this time of year. Keep reading to learn about 3 helpful tips to keep your smile cavity-free.
Brush Your Teeth After Every Meal
Brushing your teeth twice each day for two minutes is essential, but if you plan to eat a few additional sweets during mealtime, make sure you’re cleaning your smile afterward.
This might mean taking a small oral hygiene kit to work with you so that you can remove food debris from your teeth after finishing lunch. You’ll also want to incorporate flossing to eliminate sugars that try to burrow into the crevices of your teeth.
By giving your teeth a thorough cleaning multiple times each day, you can reduce your risk of dental decay and avoid the need for restorative treatment.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum to Increase Saliva
After you finish enjoying a candy bar or fluffy pastry, make sure to chew a piece of sugar-free gum. This is especially helpful if you’re unable to brush and floss your teeth after eating.
The chewing motion that is required helps to stimulate saliva production – an essential component that decreases the chances of dry mouth and bad breath. It also assists in flushing out harmful bacteria and damaging sugars so that they do not adhere to the surfaces of your teeth and lead to dental decay.
Consider Alternative Sweet Treats
If you have a sweet tooth but want to be more mindful of the health of your smile, you can opt for less harmful sugars, like fresh fruit (i.e., apples, berries, bananas, etc.). These contain natural sugars that are unlikely to cause the same kind of harm to your teeth.
However, if a piece of fruit is not what you have in mind, you can choose foods that will not remain on your pearly whites as long. For example, a slice of angel food cake is a better choice than a fudge brownie or chocolate and caramel cookie.
No one says you must give up your love for sweets, but you will want to make better choices when keeping your oral and overall health in mind. Doing so will ensure you maintain a cavity-free smile throughout the holidays while still getting to enjoy some of your favorite tasty treats.
About the McCarl Dental Group at Shipley’s Choice
McCarl Dental Group at Shipley’s Choice consists of a team of esteemed dentists who understand that the holidays can be a difficult time of year for those who have a sweet tooth. Trying to stay away from the endless array of pastries and candies can be a challenge, but we’re here to help patients make healthier choices and smile-saving decisions. If you want to learn what you can do to avoid cavities but enjoy some of your favorite sugary treats, call our office or visit our website.