How Do I Protect My Smile During Thanksgiving?

On Thursday, millions of people in the United States will be gathering with friends and family to celebrate Thanksgiving. While we love this holiday as much as anyone, we also recognize that the sugary and starchy foods and drinks can increase your risk of tooth decay. How do you protect your smile during Thanksgiving?

Floss and Brush!

Make sure you begin and end your day by brushing your teeth for at least two minutes. We also suggest flossing every night before going to bed. In addition, you can bring travel size floss with you to use after your meal, just before you excuse yourself from the dinner table first. When you brush and floss you remove food particles that would otherwise be broken down by bacteria, leading to a greater risk of tooth decay and gingivitis.

Drink Water with Your Meal

Try to avoid the temptation to drink soda or tea with your meal. Water contains no sugar, no staining agents, and no acidic content. Water also helps rinse away food particles from your smile.

Choose Healthier Options

When you fill your plate, be sure to include fresh fruits and vegetables. Apples, carrots, and broccoli are examples of rougher fruits and vegetables that can help scrub away plaque when you eat. They are also a healthier alternative to some of the more starchier food choices.

You can also limit your consumption of desserts (or drink water and floss right afterward) to help protect your smile. If you have any questions about protecting your smile form decay or gingivitis this holiday season, give us a call. We can also schedule a dental cleaning and checkup as well.

ABOUT YOUR EVANSTON, IL, COSMETIC DENTIST:

Dr. Brent Engelberg and our highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including: Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.