4 Ways to Appreciate Your Gums This Thanksgiving

The holidays and Thanksgiving are all about being grateful for what you have. Many people won’t stop to consider everything their gums do for them, like house all of their teeth, help them chew their delicious side dishes and turkey, and allow them to brim with confidence. However, it’s easy to give thanks to your gums for everything they do! Read on for four ways to show your gums you appreciate them this Thanksgiving.

Be Mindful of Sugary, Sticky Sweets

Bacteria that are known to lead to oral infections, including gum disease, love to feed off of sugars and carbohydrates. This Thanksgiving, you may be tempted to snack on delicious homemade cookies and pies that you only get once a year, but instead of exposing your mouth to these sweets throughout the day, try to enjoy a single dessert sitting. That way, your saliva won’t have to work overtime to remove sugar from your mouth and you can simply brush your teeth afterward to prevent bacteria accumulation!

Satisfy Your Gums with Protein & Vegetables

There are countless side-dishes and entrees that will be present on your dinner table this Thanksgiving that can actually be beneficial for your gums! Green bean casserole, roasted carrots, and other vegetable and protein-forward foods will satisfy your holiday craving all while providing your gums with essential vitamins to stay healthy and without attracting harmful oral bacteria.

Don’t Cut Back on Cranberries

Cranberries offer several benefits to your gums that you may not have known. They contain polyphenols, which are a compound known to help ward off infection-causing bacteria in the mouth that can lead to cavities and gum disease. In fact, a study published in 2014 in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology stated that cranberries have shown therapeutic potential for people with oral diseases like periodontitis!

Stick to Your Regular Oral Hygiene Routine

According to the American Dental Association, the key to maintaining healthy gums is to brush twice each day and floss at least once a day. During the holidays, especially if you’re going out of town, it’s important to stick to your daily oral hygiene routine to prevent bacteria from accumulating in the mouth, leading to the early signs of gum disease.

Your gums are the foundation of your smile, so this Thanksgiving, be sure to show them some appreciation by taking the preventive steps listed above to keep them healthy and happy!

About the Author

Dr. Justin Braga is a Board-Certified Periodontist who has completed advanced education and training to become an expert on gum care. He offers a wide range of gum disease treatments, ranging from periodontal diagnostic examinations to osseous surgery to preserve the foundation of smiles. For questions or to schedule a periodontal cleaning, visit Huntington Beach Periodontics & Dental Implants’ website or call 714-587-9094.