How to Enjoy Holiday Treats Without Damaging Your Teeth

Each year the holiday season provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious treats, starting with Halloween candy and going all the way through the end of the year with candy canes and Christmas cookies.

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The problem is that not only will many of these treats help you pack on the pounds easily, they can also wreak havoc on your teeth. Whether you have kids with braces or are more advanced in age, sweet treats are probably some of the most dentally-damaging things you can subject your teeth to. Don’t let the sugar plum fairy get the best of you this holiday season. Enjoying the holidays and all they have to offer might mean having to skip out on certain foods in favor of some healthier, but still delicious alternatives.

Stay Away From:

  • Nuts – You can enjoy nuts in moderation, but one thing you should absolutely avoid is using your teeth as a nutcracker, which can end up cracking your chompers instead.
  • Wine – Wine, especially red wine, is often touted for its health benefits when consumed in moderation, but it can stain your teeth. If you do indulge, be sure to brush well after imbibing.
  • Soda – Soda is one of the worst things for your teeth due to all the sugar it contains, which soaks your teeth. Using a straw to drink soda is one way to reduce the impact all that sugary, syrupy liquid has on your teeth, but the best option is to avoid it altogether.
  • Hard Candy – Hard candy, such as candy canes, may be delicious and easy to find during the holidays, but can crack your teeth and leave a super sugary residue on your teeth.

Healthier Alternatives:

  • Fruit – The natural sugars in fruits mean they can be enjoyed as a sweet treat for dessert rather than traditional items like pies or cakes. If you must, have one small slice of your favorite dessert, but fill the rest of your plate up with delicious and nutritious fruits.
  • Cheese – Cheese contains calcium which is good for your teeth and can be a great snacking option rather than other foods loaded with sugar.
  • Veggies – Enjoy fresh veggies as an appetizer rather than opting for other sugary or sweet treats. Vegetables are loaded with Vitamin A, which can strengthen the enamel in your teeth.
  • Turkey – Turkey will likely be your main course for Thanksgiving and possibly also for Christmas, and the good news is you don’t need to shy away from it. This bird is a good source of protein and phosphorous which helps your body battle tooth decay.

More Tips

  • Sugar-free treats should be substituted if possible
  • Avoid sticky foods like dried fruits (no fruitcake)
  • Brush your teeth and floss after you eat anything questionable

After the holidays are over, visit Dr. Steven Van Wicklen at South Austin Dentist & Orthodontics for a variety of professional dental services including:

  • Initial Exam
  • Cosmetic Bonding
  • Teeth Whitening
  • Porcelain Veneers
  • Crowns
  • Fillings
  • Dental Implants
  • Dentures
  • Emergency Dentistry
  • Invisalign

Schedule an appointment with South Austin Dentist & Orthodontics today!,