We all enjoy the holiday season, but Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings often encourage the consumption of sugary foods and drinks. Over time, this could lead to the onset of cavities. Fortunately, our Astoria, NY, patients can take steps to prevent cavities over the Thanksgiving holiday.
Brushing and Floss (Especially After Your Meal)
Caring for your smile each day from home helps limit the risk of cavities and keeps your smile bright and healthy. You should brush your teeth, using a toothpaste containing fluoride, twice each day. When you brush, you should do so for at least two minutes. Flossing helps remove the bits of food a toothbrush cannot reach. In addition to flossing before bed, consider bringing a little with you to clean your teeth following your meal.
Cut Back on Sugary Foods and Drinks
Enjoying your holiday favorites in moderation can help protect your smile. So, in addition to watching out for cakes, cookies, and pies, be aware that stuffing, biscuits, muffins, sweet potatoes, and mashed potatoes all contain starch, a favorite for harmful bacteria to break down and increase the risk of decay in the process. You can help by consuming fresh fruits and vegetables with your meal and washing down your food with a glass of water.
Schedule a Checkup and Cleaning
Be sure to make an appointment to have your teeth cleaned, which helps reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. You can make one now before the holiday season (and before your dental insurance benefits and flex spending funds expire) or for 2019, when your new benefits become available. If you have any questions about avoiding cavities, or if you’re ready to make an appointment, then contact our team today. We want you to enjoy your holidays without putting your smile in danger!
Do You Have Questions About Staying Cavity-Free?
We want to help our patients enjoy a smile free of tooth decay and other common oral health issues. For more information on our preventive procedures, schedule a consultation with us by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
