The holidays are here with all the usual spirited décor and tasty treats, but it’s important to remember to care for your teeth. You probably already know that brushing and flossing them twice a day is essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, but there’s more you can do to protect your pearly whites. The drinks you enjoy can also impact them, for better or worse. Keep reading to learn a few beverages that are popular this time of year that could hurt your smile!
Drink #1: Coffee
Though coffee is popular beyond the holiday season, it can be particularly risky during this time. It’s acidic, which means it can wear down the protective enamel on your teeth. On top of that, it contains tannins which can stain them. Though you might enjoy your morning brew every day of the year, it’s tempting to add some festive flair by including peppermint or other wintery flavors which usually also come with plenty of sugar. Unfortunately, this attracts unhealthy bacteria that contribute to tooth decay.
Drink #2: Hot Chocolate
If you thought you could save your teeth by switching from coffee to hot cocoa, you wouldn’t really be doing yourself any favors. Chocolate typically has a high sugar content which can lead to cavities. To add insult to injury, it also contains chromogens which are pigment-producing substances that can cling to your teeth and cause discoloration.
Drink #3: Wine
It’s common to be offered a glass of wine at gatherings with friends and family. You might already be avoiding red wine because you’ve noticed it leaves your grin looking ruddy. Like coffee, wine contains tannins that can stain your pearly whites. You’re not safe with white wine, though. It has the same ingredients and can leave your teeth looking splotchy. On top of that, wine of any color is also very acidic and can damage them.
Drink #4: Citrus Fruit Punch
Though citrus fruits like lemons and oranges are good for your over-all well-being, they’re less friendly to your teeth. You’re likely to come across them this season either in a big bowl of fruit punch at a party or perhaps in your spiced wine or tea. They can erode the protective out layer of your teeth and can result in tooth sensitivity, so while it’s probably okay to have some occasionally, you don’t want to overdo it.
If it’s too hard to avoid all these popular culprits, remember that the less you expose your teeth to unhealthy ingredients, the better. Try having smaller portions or fewer cups to mitigate possible problems. Then, be sure to stick with your daily dental care routine so that your smile can stay sparkling and fresh into the new year!
About the Practice
At Dental Care of Aspen Hill, you and the entire family benefit from a team of dentists who provide a comprehensive array of services to meet all of your dental needs. Our friendly staff wants you to feel calm and comfortable throughout your appointment and do everything they can to put you at ease. With some of the most advanced dental equipment of any practice in the area, you’re sure to receive the most effective treatments for long-lasting results. If you’d like to make an appointment, you’re welcome to request one on the website or by calling (301) 871-8000.