5 Ways to “Thank” Your Teeth This Thanksgiving

Can you imagine how difficult it would be to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal without any teeth? Or how much trouble you would have conversing with loved ones or smiling confidently for pictures? So, even though you may not think twice about your chompers during the holiday season, it truly wouldn’t be the same without them. With this in mind, read on to learn five ways to “thank” your teeth this Thanksgiving!

1. Start with Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

When it’s time to load up your plate, you might be tempted to start with buttery rolls and marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes. This year, reach for fresh fruits and vegetables first, like juicy pomegranates, cooked carrots, and green beans. That way, your tastebuds and your teeth are happy.

2. Make Water Your Drink of Choice

You might not realize it, but many holiday drinks – from peppermint mochas to hot chocolate – aren’t the best for your oral health. So, consider making water your drink of choice this Thanksgiving. It will help you stay hydrated, prevent you from over-eating, and remove debris from your teeth.

3. Be Selective with Desserts

Of course, Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without dessert. Don’t worry – you don’t need to avoid sweets entirely. You should, however, be selective about what you choose. For example, pumpkin pie is loaded with vitamins that promote gum health, and it doesn’t stick to your teeth like pecan pie.

4. Keep Floss Handy

If you have little bits of cranberry, stuffing, and pecans in your teeth after your meal, do NOT reach for something sharp, like a toothpick. Instead, use floss to gently clean between your teeth. If you can, bring a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste too – it will go a long way in preventing tooth decay!

5. Schedule Your Next Dental Visit

Between Halloween candy in October, pecan pie in November, and all-things peppermint in December, your teeth are exposed to a lot of sugar during the holiday season. That’s why it’s important that you visit your dentist twice a year. So, make sure your second visit of 2024 is already on the calendar!

About the Practice

At Region Dental, we provide our patients in La Porte with everything from routine checkups to emergency exams. Not only that, but we are here to be an on-going resource for all things oral health, including how to take care of your smile during a sugar-filled holiday like Thanksgiving. If you have any questions for us about your at-home oral hygiene regimen or you’d like to schedule your next dental checkup and teeth cleaning, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (219) 362-8980.