The holiday season is officially here, and you have a lot of parties and family gatherings on the horizon, and these will include meals with plenty of sugar and starch. We want you to enjoy your holidays, but also limit the risk of cavities and periodontal issues. In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about helping smiles stay strong during the holiday season.
The Threats of Sugar and Starch
Many of our favorite dishes and desserts from this time of year are very high in sugar and starch. While enjoying these in moderation is fine, a little too much could leave behind tons of sugar and starch particles on and between your teeth. Over time, these are consumed by harmful oral bacteria in a process that creates plaque buildup. As plaque coats the teeth and hardens into tartar, this could increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. But we have a few tips for keeping your smile safe during this time of year, and through the rest of the year too!
Safeguarding Your Teeth and Gums
First, try to limit how many items in your plate are high in starch and sugar. Consider having a glass of water with your meal, as water contains no sugars, starches, or acids, and can help rinse these away from your teeth and gums. You can excuse yourself after your meal to floss thoroughly, and make sure everyone in your family continues to brush twice a day and floss every evening to protect your smile!
Seeing Our Team Today
Now is also a good time to see our team for a checkup and cleaning. Before the holiday season consumes your time, you can undergo an exam to see if you have issues that need attention, such as a cavity or gum disease, and we can provide care to address or manage these concerns, keeping your smile healthy and strong. We also conduct a cleaning to remove all plaque and tartar from your teeth, a process that not only brightens your teeth and freshens your breath, but lowers the risk of tooth decay and periodontal concerns, so you can enjoy a smile that is healthy, free of discomfort and stable.
If you have any questions about how we can protect your oral health or address concerns like toothaches or even damaged or missing teeth, then reach out to our team today to get started. Remember, a visit now is a chance to use your remaining 2025 dental benefits before they expire at the end of the year.
Dental Impressions Protects Your Oral Health
We want to help limit the risk of issues like tooth decay and gingivitis during the holiday season. To schedule an appointment and limit the risk of poor oral health, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
