Thanksgiving Tips for Protecting Your Smile
Let’s face it, Thanksgiving is delicious, but it’s not always kind to your teeth. Between sticky sides, sugary desserts, and acidic drinks, your smile goes through a lot during the holiday feast. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice your dental health to enjoy your favorite holiday.
At Vida Dental Studio in Santa Fe, we believe balance is everything. Here are some quick, helpful tips to keep your teeth happy while you enjoy the best parts of Thanksgiving.
What Thanksgiving Can Do to Your Teeth
While Thanksgiving dinner brings comfort and joy, it can also bring bacteria-friendly sugars, acids, and sticky carbs. Left unchecked, these can lead to enamel erosion, plaque buildup, and even toothaches just when you’d rather be relaxing with family.
That’s why being mindful of what you eat and how you care for your teeth afterward can make a big difference.
The Worst Offenders on the Thanksgiving Table
- Sugary Desserts
Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and cranberry bars are hard to resist. But all that sugar feeds the bacteria that lead to cavities. Try enjoying sweets in moderation and follow them with a glass of water to rinse away residue. - Sticky Foods
Candied yams, marshmallow toppings, and stuffing can get lodged between your teeth, especially if they’re soft and starchy. These are the types of foods bacteria love to linger in. - Acidic Drinks
Sodas and wine may be staples at holiday gatherings, but they’re acidic enough to weaken enamel. Sip water in between to neutralize acid and stay hydrated.
Smile-Friendly Foods to Load Up On
- Turkey – Lean, protein-rich, and not sticky—this main course is your dental friend.
- Green Beans – Especially if you go easy on the crispy onions, they’re full of fiber and vitamins.
- Mashed Potatoes – Just keep butter and salt in check, and rinse afterward to keep starch from sticking.
- Cranberry Sauce – If you make your own with less added sugar, it’s a much better alternative.
And as a bonus: chewing crunchy veggies (like carrots or celery from a pre-dinner veggie tray) can help naturally clean your teeth during the meal.
After the Meal: Simple Steps to Protect Your Smile
Once dinner is over, it’s tempting to crash on the couch, but don’t forget your teeth! A few smart hygiene steps can go a long way.
- Wait 30 minutes before brushing. Your enamel may be softened by acids, so give it time before scrubbing.
- Floss thoroughly. Get all those sticky bits of stuffing and pie out from between your teeth.
- Rinse with water or mouthwash. It’s a fast way to neutralize acids and freshen your breath.
If you’re traveling and can’t brush right away, swishing with water is better than nothing!
What If Something Goes Wrong?
Chipped a tooth on a fork? Lost a crown mid-bite? Dental issues always seem to happen at the worst times, but don’t panic. Call our office and follow the emergency instructions on our voicemail. We’ll help guide you through the situation and get you scheduled as soon as possible.
Schedule Your Post-Thanksgiving Checkup in Santa Fe
Once the leftovers are gone, it’s a great time to book a dental cleaning. A professional checkup can remove stubborn plaque and catch any issues that might have started during the holiday season.
At Vida Dental Studio in Santa Fe, we’re here to help you enjoy the season and protect your smile. Whether it’s been six months or a little longer since your last visit, we’d love to see you.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
