March has arrived, meaning that the longer, warmer days of spring are just around the corner. But that’s not the only reason to have a sunnier disposition this month; there are also several religious celebrations and other events that take place this time of year that give you plenty to look forward to.
However, many of March’s festivities feature different foods and drinks that might hurt your dental health if you don’t take the proper precautions. Continue reading to learn about 3 foods that can be harmful so you can safeguard your smile!
Culprit #1: Alcoholic Beverages
Whether you’re excited for a night on the town with friends for St. Patrick’s Day, hanging with friends in the living room to watch basketball, or are ready to see what the Easter bunny might have brought this year, there’s a good chance that alcoholic beverages will be offered or available.
Although adult drinks can help you overcome your inhibitions and live in the moment, remember that they also contain plenty of sugar. This sweet ingredient attracts harmful bacteria that cause oral issues, such as cavities and gum disease. Furthermore, alcohol is typically acidic and can erode your enamel. Downing a glass of water after finishing your drink can help negate potential acid damage, rinse away unwanted debris, and hydrate your system to help avoid a potentially painful hangover.
Culprit #2: Sugary Treats
Easter often falls in the month of March, meaning that it’s easy to find a variety of sweet treats, like egg-shaped chocolates, candy bunnies, and jelly beans, everywhere you go. If you’re tempted to indulge your sweet tooth, you might forget that doing so can potentially hurt it.
For instance, consuming too many hard candies, like lollipops or jolly ranchers, can result in cavities, which would put a real damper on your spring activities. They might also cause chips and cracks, or break, destabilize, or dislodge a tooth or restoration. Softer options that melt in your mouth, such as milk chocolate, might be safer, but are no less likely to attract unwanted germs that cause oral issues. Reducing your sugar consumption is a safe way to prevent potential dental problems.
Culprit #3: Food Coloring
Some folks look forward to specific traditions in March, like such as saluting their friends with a green-colored beer during St. Patrick’s Day shenanigans, or dying eggs to hide for children to find during their hunt. While these are wonderful ways to bond with loved ones, remember that food coloring can also cause stains.
You might think of your teeth as smooth hard mounds in your mouth, but your enamel contains microscopic pores that can absorb pigmented particles, like those found in food coloring. This can tint your grin an unusual hue or leave your teeth looking dark and dirty, detracting from your appearance as well as your self-confidence.
Thankfully, you can help strengthen your smile by brushing and flossing twice daily and visiting your dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning before engaging in celebrations this spring!
Meet the Author
Dr. Mariya Barnett has nearly a decade of experience helping patients of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. She earned her dental degree from the University of Michigan then achieved her Advanced Education in General Dentistry at the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Today, she participates with several prestigious organizations, including the American Dental Association, to remain current with the most up-to-date technology and treatment options. She offers a complete menu of services, including routine preventive visits, to meet your unique needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (469) 874-0469.
