Thankful Teeth: 5 Ways to Care for Your Smile This Thanksgiving

While it may seem like summer just ended, turkey day is already right around the corner. So, now is the perfect time to start preparing for a holiday that’s as delicious as it is smile-friendly. After all, the last thing you want is to start 2024 with a mouthful of cavities! To help prevent that from happening, keep reading to learn a few tips on how to care for your smile this Thanksgiving.

Tip #1: Keep Sugary Treats to a Minimum

With apple, pumpkin, and pecan pie at every gathering, this may seem like a near-impossible task. Don’t worry – indulging in a piece or two throughout the season is certainly okay. It’s recommended, however, that you don’t drink soda or other sugary beverages in tandem and that you rinse your mouth thoroughly with clean water afterward. About 20 minutes later, brush and floss your teeth.

Tip #2: Keep Travel-Sized Dental Care Tools Handy

It’s very common for Thanksgiving feasts to be an all-day event, starting with your grandmother’s delicious coffee cake and ending with your aunt’s amazing pecan pie. That’s why you should keep a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash on hand. This will ensure that you can easily complete your oral hygiene routine, even when you’re away from home!

Tip #3: Fill Your Plate with Protein and Vegetables

Although holiday foods have a reputation for being unhealthy, there are actually a few that genuinely benefit your oral and overall health. Sweet potatoes are a great example because they contain Vitamins A, C, and B6. In short, don’t skip any of the cooked vegetables, fresh fruits, and lean proteins that make up the feast – these can help keep your belly full and your teeth decay-free!

Tip #4: Choose Water Over Wine and Soda

Do you enjoy having a nice glass of wine at dinner? Maybe you like sipping on a fizzy soda during your meal. Although both of these beverages are delicious, their acidic nature makes them less than smile-friendly.  Plus, they can stain your teeth! On the contrary, plain water can keep you hydrated, prevent dry mouth, and help rinse food particles from your teeth throughout the day.

About the Practice

Our team at Wethersfield Dental Group aims to be your go-to resource for all things oral health. Whether you need to schedule a routine checkup or you have a question about how to keep your smile in tip-top shape this holiday season, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! You can get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at (860) 400-3007.