Holiday foods and drinks

A recent FOX News Health article discussed 10 holiday foods and drinks your dentist might not be happy about. We all tend to let loose around the holidays and recklessly consume cakes, candies, cookies, beverages and more. Here are 10 holiday season staples that may make you think twice before indulging. 

1. Bourbon- A tasty addition to eggnog but it can dry the mouth increasing the risk for cavities
2. Candy Canes- Not only are they packed with sugar but their hardness can result in cracked teeth
3. Citrus fruits- While they can have many health benefits, the acid content is not beneficial to teeth as it can cause enamel erosion
4. Coffee- Not only is coffee acidic and potentially full of sugar (don't add sugar!) but it can decrease salivary flow
5. Corn on the cob- A disaster for those with braces, but corn on the cob can also crack a filling. It's definitely better to remove the corn from the cob before eating
6. Dots and jujubes- While they are great for decorating ginger bread houses, chewy candies are not only sugary but can aggravate the TMJ due to chewing fatigue
7. Dried fruit- Dried fruit are good sources of fiber and nutrients but the high sugar content makes them a cavity risky food
8. Eggnog- Eggnog is one of the worst beverages for your teeth due to the sugar, alcohol (sometimes), and dairy, The sugars in dairy are easily digested by oral bacteria producing tooth decay
9. Fruit cake- The sugar content and sticky nature of fruit cake make it risky for dislodging crowns and causing cavities
10. Hot chocolate- As much as we love hot chocolate, the high sugar content makes it another risky holiday beverage. 

After consuming sugary items it's best to brush and floss. Waiting half an hour or so is a good way for the body to naturally neutralize acids and cleanse the teeth. We also recommend xylitol chewing gum and plain water.