The weather is getting colder, the urge to shop is building, and the good times are close to flooding in. This can only mean that the holidays are just around the corner. For some, this season means family gatherings and parties with good friends. For others, it’s a great excuse to indulge in their favorite holiday drinks and festive foods.
If you find yourself in the second category, beware of these three drinks to preserve your dental health! Continue reading to learn all about these three popular drinks that could rot your teeth before the holidays are done.
1. Holiday Wine
Wine is not just for the holidays, but it tends to get dressed up a bit for the occasion. The practice of serving warmed wine with spices in the wintertime stretches back hundreds of years. If you are a firm believer in this tradition, then you should be aware of the risks to your teeth.
Firstly, wine is made from grapes which make it highly acidic. As this acid washes over your pearly whites, it begins to slowly erode the protective outer layer called the enamel. Over time, this erosion can cause cavities, and weak teeth prone to chips and cracks.
Secondly, wine is known to cause dry mouth due to its alcohol content. Saliva is very important to the preservation of your oral biome as it helps neutralize acids and fight bacteria.
2. Hot Chocolate
Even the kids teeth aren’t safe from the ravages of holiday drinks. This favorite beverage is usually made from a mixture of sugar and cocoa powder that is pre-packaged and processed. This makes it both easily accessible and awful for teeth.
Even if it’s made the traditional way with melted chocolate and milk, it can still be too sugary for your smile. To top it off, literally and figuratively, the presence of marshmallows on top is another injection of straight sugar.
The bacteria in plaque feed on sugar. To these oral florae, it’s a delicacy. Once the bacteria have fed on the sugars in your chocolaty delight, they begin to spread and produce acid that slowly wears holes in your teeth. The end result is tiny cavities that can form in hidden places because liquid can pass through teeth.
3. Eggnog
If there was one drink that combines all the worst parts of the other two drinks, it’s eggnog. Made from eggs, sugar, cream, spices, and rum, eggnog causes dry mouth, tooth erosion, and cavities. Luckily, it’s also the least popular drink on this list.
If you love these holiday drinks and can’t go without them during your festivities, don’t! However, moderation and good oral hygiene are key to preserving dental health. Sip water to stay hydrated and wash acid and sugar off your teeth.
You should also continue brushing and flossing regularly. Taking care of your teeth will not only let you enjoy your favorite holiday beverages but will also make your dentist’s job easier when you see them again. Keep up your holiday spirit and keep smiling!
About the Practice
At Gentle Dentistry Sparta, Dr. James Shahinian and Dr. Zelia Cannon are your dental experts standing by to provide top-notch care. They use the latest dental technology to bring you customized treatment plans that give long-lasting results without discomfort. Before the holidays fill up your schedule, make some time for a checkup! Call (973) 729-9044 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website to explore other services.