Tips for a Healthy Smile This Thanksgiving

      Thanksgiving is a time to appreciate all of the blessings bestowed on you and your family.  Even in times of hardship one can always find something to be thankful for. Since it's creation Thanksgiving has been benchmarked with togetherness of friends and family, and also the consumption of good food.  Although this season is a time usually celebrated with an assortment of savory and sweet foods, your oral health does not need to suffer. Below are a few tips to follow on Turkey Day.

• Avoid constant grazing:  Constant nibbling throughout the day will cause the pH in your mouth to drop and gives a chance for bacteria to flourish.  Frequent grazing will not allow your saliva to naturally cleanse your mouth and raise your pH back to healthy levels.
•   Drink water with your meal: Drinking water and rinsing will allow for cleansing of food particles that may remain in your teeth until brushing at night. It may also raise the pH in your mouth to more healthy levels.
•   Avoid dark colored foods: If you have been bleaching your teeth your teeth may be more susceptible to uptake of stain from dark colored foods and drinks. Our favorite dishes such as cranberry sauce may be mighty sweet and can also stain you teeth. 
•  Avoid sticky foods: Sticky foods such as nuts, raisins, and pies can remain in the grooves of your teeth. If you have to get a taste make sure you rinse or brush afterward.
•   Bring a toothbrush:  If you are traveling this holiday season you may want to pack a toothbrush and floss with you to your final destination. After all with all of that food who knows when you will feel a nap coming on.