Being able to enjoy life with a healthy smile is something to be thankful for, especially this time of year. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, you may be thinking about all the things you appreciate but often forget about. As you consider all the delectable foods you get to enjoy while gathering with family and friends, you may want to consider adding your teeth to your list of what you are grateful for. Why? Here are four reasons to think about.
What Makes Your Teeth Special?
There are countless reasons why your teeth are worthy of thanks, but if you need help narrowing them down, here are four to consider:
- They allow you to chew and eat your food, which helps with digestion and better overall health. There are too many foods on the Thanksgiving table that you won’t want to miss out on. Your teeth can help you enjoy every bite and savor the flavor.
- They allow you to speak clearly when talking to family and friends. When seated around the table, conversation will likely occur, making it easier for you to participate and engage with others.
- They help you feel more confident when smiling for pictures. You can guarantee someone will have a camera ready on Thanksgiving, asking everyone to smile!
- They ensure your breath stays fresh when you commit to taking proper care of them. Instead of letting bacteria accumulate over time and cause decay (that can lead to bad breath), healthy teeth ensure others don’t shy away when you try to talk to them.
How to Care for Your Smile This Thanksgiving
Knowing what kind of dishes will be on the table this holiday season, it’s important to take proper care of your teeth and gums. While you can enjoy your grandma’s famous pecan pie, you’ll need to make sure that you:
- Practice good oral hygiene in the morning and at night, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash.
- Drink plenty of water to flush out harmful bacteria and food particles from your mouth.
- See your dentist for a dental checkup and cleaning before the holidays.
- Try to eat desserts or other sweets with your meal so that your salivary glands continue to work thoroughly, flushing out anything that might try to stick to your teeth.
- Add plenty of protein and fresh vegetables to your plate to lower the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Get ready to enjoy Thanksgiving this year, and show your appreciation to your pearly whites by giving them the care and attention they deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Ernie Costello is a passionate and trustworthy dentist in Arlington Heights who goes above and beyond to provide patients with outstanding care and personalized service. When it comes to the holidays, he and the team at Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence offer tips and suggestions to lower the risk of cavities or dental emergencies while at home and away. If you want to make sure your smile stays healthy and intact this Thanksgiving, contact us at (847) 259-1111 to schedule an appointment.