Thanksgiving is a time for delicious food, joyous celebrations, and spending time with loved ones. But amidst the festivities, it’s easy to neglect one crucial aspect of our health: oral hygiene.
Your dental professional friends at Dentistry at 1818 Market Street are here to remind us that, while we may be focused on the next turkey leg or slice of pie, neglecting our teeth can have consequences. That’s why this Philadelphia dentist thinks that remembering to floss on Thanksgiving is more important than ever.
Here’s why your center city dentist at Dentistry at 1818 Market Street thinks flossing on Thanksgiving is crucial for your oral health:
- Combat Plaque Buildup: Thanksgiving feasts are notorious for their abundance of rich and sugary foods. These delicious treats are unfortunately heaven-sent for plaque-forming bacteria. Plaque builds up in the tight spaces between teeth, where even the most meticulous brushing can’t reach. This plaque can harden into tartar, requiring professional teeth cleaning from Dentistry at 1818 Market Street. Flossing disrupts plaque formation, preventing it from wreaking havoc on your teeth and gums.
- Say Goodbye to Bad Breath: Thanksgiving meals are often filled with fragrant ingredients like garlic and onions, leaving behind less-than-pleasant breath. While brushing helps, it doesn’t remove the food particles trapped between your teeth. Flossing removes these particles, eliminating the source of bad breath and leaving you with a fresh, confident smile. If you aren’t confident about the look of your smile, at Dentistry at 1818 Market Street, a top dentist in center city philadelphia, we specialize in smile makeovers and would be happy to offer you a free smile makeover consultation.
- Prevent Cavities and Gum Disease: Plaque buildup left unchecked leads to cavities and gum disease. Cavities are painful and require dental fillings at our center city dental office, while gum disease can cause inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss. Flossing removes plaque and food particles, preventing these issues and keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
- Boost Your Overall Health: Studies have shown a link between poor oral hygiene and various health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. At Dentistry at 1818 Market Street, we care about our dental patients. By taking care of your teeth and gums through consistent flossing at home, you’re not just improving your oral health; you’re contributing to your overall well-being.
- Set a Healthy Example: Thanksgiving is a time for family traditions. By incorporating flossing into your post-meal routine, you’re setting a positive example for your loved ones, especially children. This can help them develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Making Flossing Fun:
Flossing may not be the most exciting part of Thanksgiving, but there are ways to make it more enjoyable. Here are some ideas from our friendly dentists at Dentistry at 1818 Market Street:
- Choose flavored floss: Opt for mint, cinnamon, or other flavors that make flossing more pleasant.
- Use festive floss picks: Kids will love using fun-shaped floss picks, turning flossing into a playful activity.
- Turn it into a game: Challenge family members to a “flossing race” to see who can floss their teeth most effectively.
- Make it a family affair: Floss together as a family after your meal, turning it into a bonding experience.
Remember: Flossing is just as important as brushing. Aim to floss once a day, preferably before bed, to ensure optimal oral health. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure your smile stays bright and healthy even after indulging in Thanksgiving’s delicious feast.
So, this Thanksgiving, don’t forget to floss! By prioritizing your oral health, you’re setting yourself up for a happy and healthy holiday season. We look forward to seeing you in our office for your next Philadelphia dental appointment.
