Maintaining your oral health can be difficult during the holiday season. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it can be helpful to know how you can keep your mouth in good shape and still enjoy your holiday. Here are a few foods to keep in mind, according to Dr. Kandar.
Cheese
Cheese actually helps lower the pH in your mouth, which will neutralize acids caused by consumption of other foods. That means reducing the risk of dental decay while you and your family are enjoying appetizer boards. Additionally, cheese is full of essential nutrients like calcium and protein, so every bite is another step towards optimum dental health.
Leafy Greens
It’s no surprise that one of the best foods for your oral health is, well, almost any of those leafy greens! Greens are full of vitamins and minerals essential to oral health, as they aid in strengthening tooth enamel and preventing gum disease. Veggies like green beans or Brussel sprouts are often common on Thanksgiving tables, so make sure they make it to your plate this holiday!
Starches
Mashed potatoes, white bread, and maybe even white rice, might make their way to your Thanksgiving spread this year, so it’s best that you avoid overindulging. Though it might not be initially apparent that they can have negative effects on your oral health, these starches and carbs break down into sugars and can give room for decay-causing bacteria to find themselves right at home in your mouth. Consider instead swapping these low-nutrient foods for more complex grains, like sweet potatoes or whole-grain bread.
Schedule an Appointment
What foods are your family bringing to the table this year? If you have any questions about maintaining your oral health, or to schedule your next appointment with Financial District San Francisco dentist Dr. Kandar, call (415) 523-9178 today!
