This time of year is filled with festive drinks, delicious pies, and peppermint-flavored everything; it’s no wonder it’s earned the nickname “season of sugar!” To help keep your teeth strong and your gums infection-free, it’s important to be selective about the foods and drinks you indulge in. With this in mind, keep reading for five holiday treats that can hurt your teeth.
Candy Canes
Whether you love trying the latest, craziest flavors or you stick to the classic peppermint ones, these seasonal staples can spell “yum” for your tastebuds and “disaster” for your teeth. After all, there’s no good way to enjoy them. If you bite into them, you can crack a tooth. If you suck on them, you continually expose your teeth to sugar, increasing your risk of developing a cavity!
Popcorn
Around this time of year, popcorn gets topped with milk chocolate, cinnamon sugar, and caramel. Although this certainly makes this treat even more delicious, it also makes it more harmful for your teeth. That’s why it’s best to stick to air-popped popcorn, keeping an eye out for kernels in the process.
Eggnog
If you had to guess, how much sugar do you think is in eggnog? The average is 15-17 grams, but some have upwards of 20. Yikes! That’s why it’s best to stick to water as much as possible and, when you do indulge, opt for a sugar-free kind.
Cranberry Sauce
Since cranberries contain essential vitamins and nutrients, you might think that this is a healthy side. However, the added sugar content in cranberry sauce might surprise you, and it can certainly increase your chances of ending the holiday season with a cavity or two.
Sugar Cookies
This one might not be surprising since “sugar” is in the name. Although you don’t have to avoid this delicious dessert entirely, it is a good idea to only indulge in a cookie or two for the sake of your oral health. Once you’re done, make sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly!
About the Doctor
Dr. Roel Valadez, Jr. earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio before undergoing an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at UT Health San Antonio. Ever since, he’s used his education and training to help his patients achieve healthier, happier smiles! If you have a question for him about your oral health – whether it’s how to keep your teeth healthy during the holidays or which foods you should steer clear of – don’t hesitate to get in touch with him via his website or by phone at (361) 664-3057.