Thanksgiving is only a short time away and the holiday season will be arriving soon after. Which means a lot of meals high on sugar and starch, major factors in the onset of inflammation. In today’s blog, Dr. Ann Kania talks about how to lower your risk of periodontal disease in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, during the holidays!
The Link Between Sugar, Starch, and Gum Inflammation
When we consume lots of foods with starch, such as potato-based dishes that are popular during the holidays, or rolls and biscuits, this could leave behind particles that cling to the teeth or become caught between them. The same goes for foods and drinks high in sugar, such as soda, pie, cobbler, and cookies. Bacteria will have a holiday feast as well, consuming these particles to create the plaque and tartar buildup that irritates and inflames the gums. You could develop sore, red, bleeding, and receding gums, which indicates the presence of gingivitis or periodontal disease. But we have a few tips for avoiding gum inflammation during the holidays!
Tips for Safeguarding Your Smile
What actions can you take during the holiday season to better safeguard your gums? We suggest taking time to brush and floss daily, even when on the road for the holidays. Flossing is especially important, as this removes what a toothbrush cannot, and helps fight inflammation. In fact, you could excuse yourself after your meal to go floss!
When you make your plate, try to enjoy options high in sugar and arch in moderation. Balance this with fresh fruit and veggies, as options like carrots, broccoli, salads, and even apple slices could help remove plaque as you enjoy them. If you have a glass of water with your meal, this could also help rinse away sugar and starch particles!
Periodontal Treatment
If you begin to exhibit changes to your gums, such as bleeding, redness, or soreness, then see our team today! We can examine your smile and discuss a treatment plan before the hectic holiday season limits your availability. You can use your 2026 dental insurance benefits and health savings account funds before they expire. Our team can manage early stages with a deep cleaning and holistic treatments, like Ozone Therapy. For more substantial cases, we offer a gentle and precise approach with dental lasers, which can help reshape the gums, destroy bacteria, and offer results in one visit, often with little to no anesthesia needed. If you have any questions about avoiding gum inflammation and disease during the holidays, then contact our team today.
Schedule Your Appointment and Avoid Periodontal Disease
We want to help you enjoy your holidays without leaving your gums in danger. To learn more about preventing poor periodontal health, then call Dr. Ann Kania in Encinitas, CA, today at 760-642-0711.