When the holiday season arrives, it’s easy to indulge in favorite festive treats. However, some of these foods may take a toll on your oral health.

Stringham Dentistry explains that understanding which holiday favorites are good and not-so-good for your teeth can help you maintain a healthier smile.

Here’s what to look for as you celebrate:

The Impact of Holiday Sweets on Your Oral Health

Sugary treats like candy canes, holiday cookies, and rich desserts are everywhere during the holiday season. While they’re delicious, they can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, and even gum disease if left unchecked. Sticky sweets and hard candies, in particular, can cling to teeth, increasing the chances of cavities.

Stringham Dentistry Tip: If you’re craving sweets, opt for dark chocolate over sticky or hard candies. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can help reduce bacteria in your mouth and is less likely to stick to teeth.

Not-So-Healthy Holiday Foods for Teeth and Gums

According to Dr. Cameron Stringham and Dr. Rachel Liu many holiday favorites can be rough on your dental health. Here are a few to be cautious with:

• Sugary Beverages: Hot chocolate, eggnog, and seasonal cocktails contain high sugar levels, which can wear down enamel and cause decay.
• Starchy Foods: Stuffing, white bread rolls, and other starchy treats can stick to your teeth, converting into sugar that bacteria thrive on.
• Dried Fruits: While they seem healthy, dried fruits like cranberries can be high in sugar and sticky, promoting plaque buildup and decay.

Enjoy these foods in moderation, and be sure to brush and floss after consuming them to minimize their effects on your teeth.

Healthy Holiday Foods for Good Oral Health

Balance your holiday plate with some tooth-friendly foods. Dr. Cameron Stringham and Dr. Rachel Liu love these festive foods that are good for your oral health:

• Cheese and Dairy Products: Cheese, yogurt, and milk contain calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen enamel and help fight off acids that erode teeth.
• Nuts: Nuts like almonds and cashews are packed with essential minerals and can help stimulate saliva, which naturally cleans your mouth.
• Fresh Fruits and Veggies: Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, stimulate gums and help reduce plaque by increasing saliva production.

Choosing these healthier options will support your dental health while still allowing you to enjoy the festive season.

Keep Your Smile Bright with Regular Dental Visits

Holiday treats are part of the season, but make sure your oral health stays a priority and schedule a pre or post-holiday dental appointment with Stringham Dentistry. You will be so glad you did and so will your oral health.

Schedule your dental checkup today.