The holiday season is upon us, which also means many of us will be leaving our smiles vulnerable to the onset of cavities. In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentists explain how many of our favorite holiday dishes could cause cavities, and how to help safeguard your smile from the dangers of tooth decay.
How the Holidays Cause Cavities
The holiday season is filled with delicious comfort foods and desserts, many of which are high in sugar and starch. These items taste great, but sugars and starches tend to blend to the teeth. Which means harmful oral bacteria have an opportunity to break them down and consume them. This causes a rise in oral acidity and also coats the teeth in layers of plaque buildup. Plaque, which hardens into tartar, cannot be removed with brushing alone and is linked to an increased risk in tooth decay and gum disease, as well as bad breath and even teeth stains. To help protect your smile, enjoy these items in moderation and drink a glass of water with them to help rinse away the particles before they’re trapped. You can also balance your plate with fresh fruits and veggies, as many of them help scrub away plaque as you eat them, such as carrots, apples, and broccoli.
Better Care at Home
During the holiday season it’s also vital to properly care for your smile each and every day. Which means starting and ending your day by brushing our teeth for two minutes and using a fluoride toothpaste. This goes for kids and adults alike! In the evening, we all need to floss as well, as this removes the particles trapped between teeth that a toothbrush alone may not reach. These actions help limit plaque buildup until we can see you for a checkup and cleaning!
Schedule Your Checkup Now
A checkup and cleaning are a chance to monitor the smile for signs of trouble and address problems early, often before you experience discomfort. Cleaning means removing all plaque and tartar to keep smiles strong and free of cavities and periodontal issues. If you schedule a visit now, we can help address any issues quickly, and allow you to start 2022 with a healthier smile. If you have any questions, then please contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About Avoiding Cavities?
Our team wants you to avoid the onset of tooth decay during your celebrations! Schedule an appointment today and start your journey to a stronger smile. You can also call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. Find our office at 15010 S Black Bob Road Olathe, KS 66062. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.