The holidays are upon us and Thanksgiving is finally here! This means gathering (safely) with our loved ones, partaking in delectable seasonal favorites, and relaxing in a cozy environment. Indeed, the kids are on break from school and look forward to this fun-filled, relaxing holiday. While this time can be relaxing, know that it is important to keep your health in mind during the holiday season, including knowing what impact certain foods have on your smile. Fortunately, your Fort Worth, TX orthodontist at Lake Country Orthodontics is prepared to help you keep your smile healthy through this holiday season.

Be Conscious of Harmful Foods

Certain foods and beverages can cause structural damage to your teeth. For example, oranges, orange juice, and other citrus products have a high acid content, and when these products come into contact with your grin, they can cause sensitivity by breaking down the naturally-occurring enamel that is present on each tooth. Once enamel is gone, there is nothing standing in the way of your teeth and harmful bacteria, products, and other items.

Another tidbit to consider is what impact sugar actually does have on your smile. We often hear the phrase “sugar will rot your teeth,” but how much of that statement is actually true? The answer is: quite a lot. When bacteria come into contact with sugar, they secrete harmful acids that aid in breaking down a tooth’s healthy structure. This is how cavities form, and if left unchecked, can progress toward decay and, eventually, tooth loss. While Thanksgiving happens only once a year, paying mind to what you are eating can make a tremendous difference in the strength of your smile.

The Dangers of Not Flossing

Another complication that emerges from a holiday dinner includes its ability to get lodged in-between teeth. Flossing is necessary to dislodge bits of food that brushing alone may not be able to address. When you do not floss, you are subjecting your gums to potential disease and infection, such as periodontal disease, as the food that is trapped attracts harmful oral bacteria. Additionally, getting pieces of turkey or other holiday favorite stuck in your braces can simply be a pain. Fortunately, you can avoid these complications by practicing excellent preventive measures at home such as brushing your teeth and flossing.

Staying Safe this Thanksgiving

At Lake Country Orthodontics, we value your smile and prioritize your comfort every day of the year. While the holidays are a great reprieve from the usual day-to-day stress of the year – especially due to the pandemic – it is important to take care that your oral health is not left on the back burner. For more information on tips or tricks for staying safe this holiday, or to schedule an appointment, contact our Fort Worth, TX office at 817-236-7846 today.