A Periodontist's Guide to a Tooth-Friendly Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and that means many Americans are planning their spreads for the big day. 

The holiday is synonymous with decadent desserts, festive drinks, and gravy-heavy sides, but if you aren’t careful, these may increase the risk of cavities, gum issues, and other oral health problems. 

To help protect your smile, Dr. Caesar Sweidan and Dr. Laura Smith at Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants in Gulfport, Mississippi, have created this guide to reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. 

Follow these simple tips for a Thanksgiving feast that keeps your smile bright.

Tip #1: Make smart food choices

You’ll have lots of food to choose from on Thanksgiving Day, but that doesn’t mean you have to eat everything on the table. Focus on healthier options, like dishes with carrots, celery, and green beans. 

Don’t feel like you have to avoid rich or sugary offerings altogether, but keep portions small. 

Rinse your mouth with water after having something sweet, like cranberry sauce or a piece of pie. This can prevent food particles from building up on your teeth and reduce cavity-causing bacteria.

Tip #2: Protect your gums

Many people drink wine, cocktails, or spirits at Thanksgiving dinner, but these celebratory beverages can irritate and inflame your gums if consumed in excess. Biting down on crunchy or hard foods, like nuts or turkey bones, can have a similar effect. 

The good news is that you can reduce the risk of these potential issues. 

For example, following up each adult beverage with a glass of water can support saliva production and prevent bacteria from building up. Similarly, cutting proteins like ham and turkey off the bone before eating can prevent cuts and lacerations.

Tip #3: Practice good oral hygiene before and after the feast

Brush your teeth 30 minutes before sitting down for Thanksgiving dinner. This simple practice can help protect your teeth from the acids produced by foods and drinks, making it harder for bacteria to take hold. 

After the meal, chew on a piece of sugar-free gum. This encourages saliva production and also prevents food particles from sticking around your teeth and gums.

Tip #4: Schedule an oral exam with your dentist before the holiday

During the holiday rush, it’s easy to forget a dental checkup. However, if it’s been more than six months since your last exam, now is the perfect time to schedule one. 

Dental X-rays and professional teeth cleaning can keep your smile bright and identify any underlying issues that could be affected by your Thanksgiving meal.

We can help protect your smile this Thanksgiving

Don’t let Thanksgiving take a toll on your oral health. Following these simple tips can reduce your risk of cavities, periodontal disease, and dental emergencies, and keep your smile healthy into the New Year.

If you’d like to take action before the holiday, contact us today to make an appointment. Call our Gulfport, Mississippi, office at (228) 868-9615.