Thanksgiving Dinner and your Teeth

Thanksgiving is a time of the year where we begin to indulge in your favorites such as desserts, savory entrees, and of course alcoholic drinks. Hidden inside those delicious treats are tons of sugar and not so good for your oral health ingredients — SUGAR!

Is it possible to still enjoy the holiday festivities and be oral health conscious too? YES!

We’ve found some healthy Thanksgiving tips that we think you will enjoy and can incorporate into your menu next week.

Appetizers: Cheese, Raw Veggies and Nuts

Put out plates of crudités, cheese cubes, and mixed nuts for guests to snack on while dinner is being prepared. Cheese is great for teeth because it contains strength-building calcium. Casein, a protein found in milk products, fortifies the surfaces of teeth, helping to prevent cavities. Nuts contain calcium and minerals that strengthen and remineralize teeth. The chewing of hard, crunchy nuts also produces extra saliva, which fights germs and prevents decay. Chewing raw vegetables produces lots of salivae to wash away bacteria. The fibrous strands of celery are particularly good for dental health because they help clean between teeth.

Main Course: Green Beans Sautéed in Sesame Oil

Rinsing with sesame oil in place of mouthwash has been shown to reduce the effects of plaque and even, in some cases, to reverse the effects of gingivitis. Sauté your favorite vegetables in sesame oil for a tasty side dish. Top with sesame seeds for added crunch.

Dessert: Fresh Pear Slices with Honey Yogurt Dip

Serve this simple yet sophisticated seasonal dessert. Thinly slice your favorite variety of pear. Arrange on a platter. Serve with a dip made by combining a cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of honey, and a sprinkling of freshly ground cinnamon.

Fresh pears have been shown to neutralize acid on the surface of teeth. Calcium and phosphates in yogurt strengthen and remineralize teeth. Honey is a natural antiseptic.

Beverages: Tap Water and Tea

Tap water contains fluoride which reverses damage to enamel caused by acids. Green and black tea kill bacteria, thus fighting cavities. Make the tea with tap water and you reap a double benefit.

As a bonus, these tooth-healthy foods are also good for your heart and waistline. With these healthy Thanksgiving tips, it is possible to enjoy a delicious holiday dinner without gaining weight or jeopardizing your sparkling smile.

DENTAL EXAMS AND CLEANINGS

Preventing Problems Before They Start

The health of your teeth and mouth is very important to the well-being of your entire body, and while routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your smile looking its best, visiting your dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months to ensure your teeth stay healthy and your smile stays beautiful.

By routinely seeing your dentist for exams and cleanings, you can:

• Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath

• Save money by avoiding costly and extensive dental procedures

• Keep your teeth white by reducing staining from food and drinks

• Shorten the time spent in your dentist's office

• Have a smile that will last a lifetime

The Exam

During your exam, Dr Val Tsar will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. Your dentist may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Whether these X-rays are traditional or digital, the images provided will help your dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.

Professional Cleanings

Your dental hygienist will begin your cleaning by exploring the surface of your teeth to determine if you have any cavities and to examine the quality of existing fillings. The dental hygienist will then perform a periodontal exam to make sure your gums adhere tightly to your teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss may be occurring.

Next, your hygienist will carefully clean your teeth with a variety of tools to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from your teeth. Then your hygienist will floss your teeth, use a polishing compound, and apply fluoride. Cleanings usually aren't painful, but if you have any anxiety about your dental exam, be sure to let your hygienist know. They may offer several sedation options to ensure your comfort. If your dentist or hygienist finds tooth decay or gum disease, they will talk to you about changing your brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, they may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments. If your teeth and gums appear to be healthy, your dentist will probably recommend that you continue your brushing and flossing routine as usual.