Trick-or-treating didn’t happen as usual this year, but there was still plenty of candy in the stores along with many trunk-or-treat events. Thanksgiving dinner will likely be socially distanced, but those spices will still make the turkey delicious. As for the rest of the holidays this winter, well, there will be something good to eat at every turn.
What does all this add up to? Well, a lot of extra calories, for one … along with a need to prevent acid erosion of teeth in order to keep decay at bay.
We wouldn’t dream of suggesting you cut out all of the food and fun completely, but you should make a concerted effort to protect your teeth throughout the holidays.
Easy Ways to Prevent Acid Erosion of Teeth this Holiday Season
Protecting your teeth from acid erosion is easier than you think. All it takes is some time, planning, and maybe a little willpower.
1. Brush your teeth after meals and snacks, but not right away.
Finish off your meal or snack with a glass of water, and then wait about a half hour before brushing your teeth. Doing so allows the water and saliva to dissolve loose particles in your mouth. If you brush right after eating, it would be like having those acids and particles in your toothpaste. Gross.
2. Avoid acidic and sugary foods if you can.
Spicy foods, spices, soda, citrus, and sugary foods are the main culprits when it comes to acid erosion of teeth. Consider choosing healthier options if they are available. Choose water instead of soda, for example, and chew on celery and carrot sticks as snacks instead of chips and hot salsa.
3. Watch how you consume acidic foods and drinks.
If you must drink soda, use a straw to minimize the contact with your teeth. Some sodas are more acidic than others, so choose a drink that is more neutral. When you consume acidic foods or drinks, try to have them with meals so that other foods can neutralize the acids.
4. Fight back.
Speaking of neutralizing acids, those celery and carrots sticks that we mentioned above help increase saliva production in your mouth and serve as natural, gentle abrasives to cleanse your teeth. Chewing sugarless gum after a meal may help as well.
5. Consume acidic foods and drinks quickly.
In order to prevent acid erosion of teeth, avoid keeping acids or sugars in your mouth for extended periods of time. Drink your soda in one sitting rather than sipping on it throughout the day. Avoid hard candies, which stay in your mouth for a long time and essentially coat every area of your mouth with sugar.
See the Dentist Regularly
Going to the dentist twice a year is the best way to keep your teeth healthy. We will let you know if your teeth are showing any signs of enamel erosion and come up with a plan to help keep them strong.
If you are due for an examination, call today to make an appointment to see Dr. Fienman in West Bloomfield.
