Whether you are spending a romantic evening with your significant other or having a fun night out with your friends, you don’t want your Valentine’s Day celebrations to come to a screeching halt due to a dental emergency. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to keep your smile safe on this special day. Continue reading to learn some tips and healthy habits to implement for the sake of your smile!
Neutralize Acid
It may sound nice to get an adult beverage or two on Valentine’s Day. However, it’s important to be mindful. Acidic foods and beverages can hurt your dental health because they soften your enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to bacteria. Fortunately, you can neutralize some of this acid by drinking plenty of water between beverages. If you decide to have a cocktail, be sure to have a glass of water afterward.
Be Mindful of Candy
Valentine’s Day may seem like the perfect day to eat chocolates and other treats, but you should be careful about the items you choose to eat. For instance, caramel candies are more likely to stick to the teeth, increasing your risk of cavities. Sugar-only treats, like cotton candy, can affect the teeth very quickly. When it comes to chocolate, it’s best to choose one that contains less sugar. That means that dark chocolate is generally a better option than milk and white chocolate.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Brushing your teeth is always an ideal way to wash away food debris and bacteria. However, when you are at a restaurant with your significant other, it isn’t ideal to head to the bathroom to clean your smile quite yet. Instead, chew a piece of sugar-free gum containing Xylitol. The gum helps to remove excess sugars from your teeth and stimulate saliva production, preventing dry mouth.
Include Calcium in Your Diet
Calcium is super important when it comes to maintaining healthy teeth and bones. For a Valentine’s Day appetizer or snack, you may want to consider sharing a board of your favorite cubed cheeses. Another great option is brie served with apple slices.
You shouldn’t put your smile at risk this Valentine’s Day. By using the tips listed above, you can keep your smile fresh and healthy on this special occasion!
About the Practice
At Meadowbrook Dental Care, we have a team of four skilled dentists eager to serve patients in the Mineola community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. For more ways to keep your smile healthy, or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (516) 284-1234.