Holiday Treats — Not So Sweet

Cookies, cakes, pies, candy, egg nog, sweets and holiday treats galore! These are just a few of the many “goodies” that we enjoy during Christmas and New Year festivities. Our teeth, however, often reap the consequences of these culinary delights of the season.  This is especially true if we are so busy with holiday activities that we sometimes neglect our normal cleaning routines or postpone regular dental check-ups until after the season is over.
You’ve heard your parents or grandparents say it; you’ve probably said it yourself: “Don’t eat so much sugar. It will rot your teeth!” In actuality, sugar doesn’t directly deteriorate your teeth. According to the American Dental Association, sugar and starches combine with plaque, which is a continuously-growing bacteria that is produced in your mouth. The combination causes acidity that erodes the enamel on the teeth and eventually causes tooth decay.
Unless you lock yourself in a closet until the holidays are over, you will not be able to avoid being around … and, let’s face it, eating … many delicious, sweet treats. But you can take precautions. The ADA has extensive insights regarding diet and tooth decay to reminds us: “Brush twice a day, floss or use an interdental cleaner once a day, and make sure to get regular dental check-ups.”  The holidays are certainly busy, but don’t forget to take care of your teeth as you enjoy those holiday treats!