Fall is here, and many people get excited to finally enjoy the sweet treats they’ve been looking forward to all year. There’s nothing quite like a pumpkin spice latte with a decorated sugar cookie to ring in sweater season! There are some foods, though, that can be particularly harmful to your teeth that you should be aware. After all, you wouldn’t want to have to make an unexpected call to your dentist! Keep reading to learn 4 favorites that you might want to avoid this year.
Food #1: Candy
Between October and January, there are a slew of holidays that come with their own sweets. Whether it’s a leftover stash of Halloween goodies or candy-canes on a tree, such sugary treats can be awfully tempting! The ingredients attract unhealthy bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease, however, so you might want to minimize your intake.
Hard candies are also notorious for chipping or cracking your teeth when you bite down on them. If you try sucking on them instead to avoid injury, you end up bathing your mouth in sugar for a longer period. Neither will make your teeth happy!
Food #2: Dried Fruit
You might think you’re choosing a healthier option if you pick raisins instead of chocolate, but there’s still a dental risk with dried fruits. They’re frequently also coated in sugar to balance out any natural bitterness. Then, because they’re sticky, they’re prone to getting caught on or between your teeth. This gives toxic microbes plenty of opportunity to wear down the protective enamel of your teeth or penetrate below your gumline. If you do indulge, try rinsing your mouth out or brushing your teeth afterward.
Food #3: Cranberry Sauce
This holiday staple also has sweet ingredients that are bad for your oral health. It’s usually high in fructose, which is as damaging to teeth as sugar. Not only that, but it’s also highly acidic and contains artificial dyes, which further wear down your enamel. Consider skipping the cranberry sauce, this year.
Food #4: Red Wine
Especially in the cooler months, red wine is often the drink of choice at celebrations or family gatherings. You may not know, however, that wine is also highly acidic and can wear down your pearly whites. Not only that, but it contains tannins which stain your teeth. Keep your smile sparkling and reach for water, instead.
Now that you know some common culprits behind dental dilemmas during the holidays, you can make wiser choices that will keep your mouth happy and healthy all season long!
About the Author
Dr. Kevin Labosky has been practicing dentistry for over 25 years. He graduated from the Temple University School of Dentistry in 1997 and completes extensive continuing education every year so his patients benefit from the latest methodologies. His dedicated team uses the latest in dental technologies to provide top-rate care to you and the entire family. If you’d like to make an appointment, you are welcome to request one on the website or by calling (814) 237-7004.
