The holiday season often brings a plethora of tempting sweet treats that, while enjoyable, can significantly impact your oral health, caution Tufts experts. Aikaterini Papathanasiou, Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Comprehensive Care at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM), emphasizes the importance of prioritizing oral health, especially during festive occasions when snacking and indulging are common.
Balanced Diets for Festive Gatherings
Cheen Loo, Chair of Pediatric Dentistry at TUSDM, advises maintaining a balance of foods at holiday gatherings to mitigate the risk of dental issues. Including choices like fruits, vegetables, and dairy, such as cheese, can make the menu more tooth-friendly. Creative presentations, like charcuterie trees or themed fruit kabobs, not only add a fun element but also encourage healthier choices.
Mindful Snacking Choices
Papathanasiou recommends steering clear of snacks that stick to teeth, such as taffy, toffees, and gummy candies, as they can lead to fractures, chips, or dental emergencies. Sticky candies are known culprits for dental mishaps during the holidays. Opting for chocolates over sticky candies can be a more tooth-friendly choice.
Considerations for Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic drinks, often containing sugar and acids, pose risks to oral health. Dark-colored drinks, like red wine, can result in teeth discoloration. Prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to gum disease, dry mouth, and oral cancer. Papathanasiou advises limiting alcohol intake and opting for water to stay hydrated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining oral health.
Timing Matters: Brushing After Consumption
After consuming acidic foods or drinks, including alcoholic beverages and fruit juices, Papathanasiou recommends waiting 30 minutes before brushing. Rinsing the mouth with water post-meals helps remove food particles. Chewing sugarless gum stimulates saliva flow, aiding in cavity prevention. Alternatives like sugarless mints or gums with xylitol are also recommended to promote oral health.
This holiday season, adopting these expert tips can help you enjoy the festivities while safeguarding your oral health. Remember, making mindful choices and incorporating dental-friendly practices can contribute to a healthier and brighter smile.
Erin Balsa is a highly skilled and knowledgeable health journalist with a passion for educating the public on important health and wellness topics. With extensive experience in both traditional and digital media, Erin has established herself as a trusted voice in the field.