Throughout the month of March, there are many delicious treats and traditional drinks that can cause problems for your smile. Staying on track with your dental care is just as important this month as it is during November and December. Here is a list of March favorites and the best way to keep your smile healthy.
Food and Drinks to Watch Out For
National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day – On March 1st everyone who loves peanut butter may enjoy their spoonful of this spread just a little bit more. Peanut butter is heart-healthy and packed with good fats, but it also typically comes with unnecessary sugar. Bacteria feeds on the sugar that sits on your teeth and produces acids that cause cavities.
St. Patrick’s Day – When this holiday rolls around, may use it as an excuse to consume their favorite green beer or whisky. Beer, liquor and mixed drinks all typically have quite a bit of sugar, as well as high acidity. Both of these can wear away at your enamel and cause dental sensitivity, cavities and long-term tooth decay. They also increase your risk of gum disease.
National Pi Day – Since 2009, mathematicians and people who simply love pie have celebrated the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter or pi by eating one or possibly a few of their favorite pies. This means that as you feed your sweet tooth, you are also feeding the harmful bacteria on your teeth and gums.
Protect Your Smile the March
The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day to minimize the buildup of plaque and bacteria on your teeth, but there are a few more ways to help maintain your dental health during the upcoming celebrations. Adding an alcohol-free, fluoride mouthwash to your dental care routine is a great way to add an extra layer of protection for your teeth. The best order of action will be to floss, brush your teeth and then follow up with a fluoride mouth rinse.
A fluoride treatment is another great way to keep your teeth protected. For this treatment, your dentist will coat your teeth with a concentrated fluoride gel that will strengthen your enamel and possibly repair areas that have slight decay. This application can drastically reduce your risk of cavities, and it can be reapplied twice per year.
Being aware of your dental health doesn’t have to put a damper on your celebrations this month. With a proper dental care routine and regular visits to your dentist, your smile will stay healthy and beautiful.
About the Author
At Bridlewood Dental, Dr. Rodger Song is dedicated to helping every patient achieve and maintain their healthiest, most beautiful smile. With a focus on comfort and a dedication to staying abreast of the latest advances in dentistry, he has spent at least 30 years providing personalized, top-quality dental care. Dr. Song offers a wide range of dental services that include everything from general cleanings and exams to dental restorations and gum disease treatments. If you’re interested in protecting your smile with a fluoride treatment, contact the office at (972) 906-9797 or visit the website to schedule an appointment.