The holidays are almost here, which means that holiday treats are almost here, too.
While there’s definitely something special about holiday flavors and special delicacies, it’s also important to remember that the vast majority of these treats are not exactly good for your teeth.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to choose between enjoying your holidays and maintaining good oral health. Here are a few treats that will help you stay on track throughout the season!
Nuts
A bowl of mixed nuts is a standard at any holiday party, and this is one treat that you can feel good about reaching for. Nuts contain healthy fats, calcium, and other nutrients, which can benefit not only your teeth, but your overall health as well.
Fruits and vegetables
That brightly colored fruit and veggie platter is one option that is excellent for your oral health. Fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals that can help strengthen, clean, and even whiten teeth. Our favorites? Apples, carrots, and strawberries.
Cheese
Cheese is chock full of calcium, one of the best things you can eat to support healthy teeth. Cheese can also increase the pH level in your mouth, which can help inhibit bacterial growth. This prohibits tooth decay and keeps your mouth healthy.
Dark chocolate
With less sugar content than its lighter-colored counterparts, dark chocolate is a great option for anyone who has a holiday sweet tooth but wants to keep that sweet tooth healthy.
Cranberries
One of the most festive fruits out there, cranberries are actually quite good for your oral health. Some of the nutrients in cranberries help protect the teeth against a strand of bacteria that accelerates tooth decay.
Gingerbread
Let’s be honest: you don’t want to go overboard with any kind of cookie this holiday season, if you want to keep your teeth healthy. But most gingerbread (and gingersnaps) have less sugar than other holiday cookie options, making this a decent choice for a festive treat!
Keeping your oral health in check during the holidays isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to spend the season feeling deprived. Reach for these treats this season and stay festive and healthy. Happy holidays!
