Do you stick to three meals a day? Or is snacking more your thing? As the holidays roll around, some days it seems like you’re eating the entire time!

Oral hygiene is also connected to smart nutrition choices. As you may know, a steady diet of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, including sports and energy drinks, can damage teeth. But snacking throughout the day or “grazing” can also lead to tooth decay.

When you have sugary or acidic foods or drinks many times a day or sip on the same sugary drink for a long time, it increases your risk of getting cavities or tooth erosion. Plaque that is left on your teeth uses the sugar from food and drinks to make acid. The acid attacks your tooth enamel again and again which can lead to tooth decay. Tooth decay must be treated by a dentist.

To reduce your risk of tooth decay, follow the tips below:

• If you have sugary foods and drinks, have them with meals.
• Limit snacks and sugary drinks between meals.
• If you chew gum, choose sugarless gum that has the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal.
• Drink water. Drinking water with fluoride can help prevent tooth decay.
• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste two times a day and floss at least once a day, preferably at night.
• See your dentist regularly.

Almost all foods have some type of sugar so it cannot be completely taken out of your diet. Many of these foods contain important nutrients and we enjoy eating them. To lower your risk of cavities, avoid foods like candy and cookies that contain a lot of sugar but few other nutrients. You should also read nutrition facts labels on food and plan carefully for a balanced diet for you and your kids.

Of course, a day or two here and there is alright, especially during the upcoming holiday season. Be sure on the days you consume excess sugar you take care of your teeth by flossing and brushing for two minutes before going to bed.

If you have any questions regarding nutrition and your oral health, feel free to contact me by phone at (860) 347-1227 or email at info@afacd.comto set up an appointment. You can also visit the Individualized Home Care Instruction section of the practice website.

In the meantime, take care of yourself and your health.

Happy Holidays!