{"id":682,"date":"2020-12-14T22:34:30","date_gmt":"2020-12-14T22:34:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jbdentist.com\/blog\/?p=682"},"modified":"2020-12-29T22:41:05","modified_gmt":"2020-12-29T22:41:05","slug":"dentist-in-westminster-and-holiday-foods-that-can-ruin-your-teeth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jbdentist.com\/blog\/2020\/12\/14\/dentist-in-westminster-and-holiday-foods-that-can-ruin-your-teeth\/","title":{"rendered":"4 Holiday Foods That Can Harm Your Smile"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The holidays are a time for indulgence. Whether your cravings call for gingerbread cookies, your mother\u2019s chocolate pie, or a delectable glass of eggnog, it seems as if most people ditch the careful observance of how the foods they eat might impact their waistline or oral health. Before you fall in line with the idea that you\u2019ll make healthier choices come January 1, a dentist in Westminster<\/a> explains which foods you should avoid if you want to keep your smile New Year\u2019s ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Eggnog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For many people, it\u2019s not the holidays unless you have eggnog. Containing sugar, alcohol, and dairy, it is known to be one of the worst beverages you can drink because of what it can do to your teeth. First, dairy creates bad oral bacteria in your mouth. Second, the sugar feeds the bacteria, and third, the alcohol dries out your oral cavity. The result is that your mouth becomes a haven for bacteria to multiply and eat away at your tooth enamel. You can be faced with not only tooth decay but also gum disease. While it may not be easy to say \u201cno thanks\u201d to this holiday classic, it\u2019s best if you stick to water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Candy Canes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Candy canes are the epitome of holiday candies. Not only can they successfully decorate a tree, but they\u2019re what children and adults enjoy snacking on this time of year. While these peppermint treats are eye-catching, they can quickly put you on the path to cavities or a broken tooth. Packed with sugar and possessing a hard exterior, candy canes may be satisfying at the moment but can leave you with a hefty dental bill should you face necessary restorative treatment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dried Fruit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You might assume that dried fruit is a healthy snack, right? Unfortunately, this is not the case, as most are filled with sugar. Too much consumption of these treats can lead to cavity formations and a necessary filling or dental crown, depending on the severity of the problem. While it is viewed as a better alternative than candy or cookies, you don\u2019t lower your risk of decay by eating dried fruit. If you want to avoid the potential for cavities, swap these out for fresh whole fruits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Popcorn<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Popcorn is known to be a healthy snack depending on the type you choose to eat. However, you cannot walk into any grocery store without finding those cans of multi-flavored popcorn ready for grabbing. Whether it is smothered in butter, doused in cheese, or covered in caramel, you are bound to bite down on an unpopped kernel. If this happens, you can be faced with a broken or chipped tooth that results in a trip to the emergency dentist. It\u2019s best to opt for a less dangerous alternative or be extremely careful while consuming this tasty snack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ways to Prevent Decay During the Holidays<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While it is better to avoid these foods (and many others) this holiday season, it\u2019s not always easy saying \u201cno,\u201d so if you plan to indulge in any of the treats, it\u2019s important that you know how to properly care for your smile. Some helpful tips include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n