Provide Your Teeth with Some Healthy Treats this Holiday Season

Sticky sugars are not a welcome present for your dental health

Let’s face it, there is no good way to spin the fact that sugar-laden holiday treats can do a real number on our teeth. Sticky morsels such as peanut brittle and caramels may taste great, but their ability to linger in our mouth long after we think the last remnants have disappeared make them dental health enemy number one.

Rather than avoiding holiday treats completely – that’s just not realistic for most of us – Dr. Craig Janssen suggests keeping overall moderation in mind while mixing in some foods and drinks that limit the effects of sugar-heavy offerings.

What types of snacks and drinks can offset sugars?

Most holiday parties in Wisconsin will feature a cheese tray. Thankfully, cheese is one of the best snacks there is when it comes to dental health. Calcium and phosphate contained in dairy products can neutralize harmful acids and help your body rebuild tooth enamel. Plus, cheese encourages saliva production that also helps neutralize acids.

The veggie tray is another good alternative. Crunchy options such as carrots can be effective in scraping off some of the sugary residue that collects on your teeth, and the fact that veggies in general are good sources of vitamins and minerals is another advantage. Keep in mind that foods high in acid content such as citrus fruits and tomato-based sauces are not necessarily good for your teeth.

The soft drinks included as ingredients in cocktails also coat your teeth in sugar. Many drinks leave behind an acidic residue and can even dry out your mouth. It’s a good idea to have some water handy to swish around in your mouth for a good rinse. In addition, water is a basic element our bodies need to remain hydrated.

Will regular brushing help?

Absolutely! Maintaining your regular oral health routine is job one when it comes to holiday healthy habits. Brushing and flossing are as important as ever during times when you might be consuming more sweets than usual. Make sure you pack a toothbrush in an overnight bag just in case bad weather hits when you’re away from home or shouldn’t drive for any reason.

About Janssen Dental Clinic in Green Bay, Wisconsin

Janssen Dental Clinic features the dental expertise of Dr. Craig Janssen, a third-generation dentist serving patients in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and the surrounding area. Dr. Craig and his staff specialize in oral health as a component of overall well-being, a philosophy of care known as biological dentistry. They have expertise in reducing the fear and anxiety that people of all ages feel over going to the dentist, with services ranging from routine cleanings to restorative and cosmetic procedures. Call (920) 983-8383 to schedule an appointment. New patients are always welcome.