Do you often exchange sweets with your romantic partner on Valentine’s Day? Sugary treats can be a great way to show that you care, but they can also easily lead to cavities if you’re not careful. In order to avoid the need to call your emergency dentist after Valentine’s Day, you and your partner should take a few precautions to protect your smiles; here are 4 key tips to keep in mind.
1. Drink Some Water After Eating Sweets
Whenever you eat sweets, some of the sugar they contain is left behind on the teeth. Harmful oral bacteria can convert this sugar into acid that wears down your enamel, eventually resulting in cavities. However, if you take a sip of water after eating sweets, you can wash away the sugar long before it can lead to any serious consequences for your mouth. In short, when you settle down to enjoy your Valentine’s Day treat, you should always have a glass of water nearby.
2. Think Carefully About the Sweets You Gift Each Other
Some types of candy are worse for the teeth than others, which is a fact you and your romantic partner should keep in mind if you want to avoid dental issues in the long run. Sticky candies such as caramel can be particularly harmful since they cling to the teeth. Furthermore, you should also be wary of candy that is made out of pure sugar. On the other hand, chocolate tends to be a safer choice for your smile than other candies since it can easily be washed off the enamel.
3. Start Carrying Sugarless Gum with You
If you don’t have time to brush your teeth immediately after enjoying your Valentine’s Day candy, you can try chewing on some sugarless gum that has been sweetened with Xylitol instead. The gum will encourage your mouth to produce more saliva, neutralizing the acids in your mouth and washing away any lingering sugar.
4. Eat More Calcium
You can balance out the increased amount of sugar you consume around Valentine’s Day by also eating more foods that are rich in calcium – a vital nutrient for healthy teeth and bones. Cheese is often an excellent choice, with brie and cheddar cubes being particularly good examples. You may also consider adding yogurt to your diet.
As long as you are aware of the impact that sugar can have on your teeth and take the right steps to deal with it, you and your romantic partner can enjoy Valentine’s Day to the fullest without having to worry about serious dental emergencies.
About the Author
Dr. Jhansi Bodapati went to the New York University College of Dentistry for her Doctor of Dental Surgery, and she eventually became a Fellow with the Academy of General Dentistry. Her Euless practice, Pleasant Dental, offers same-day, after-hours, and weekend appointments for patients who need emergency dental care. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bodapati after Valentine’s Day, visit her website or call (817) 857-2050.