With the holidays in full swing, you have probably already overindulged at the buffet table. However, not all is lost as there are still plenty of parties and events to attend before the New Year.

From Christmas to New Years Eve, you will be tempted to indulge in too many goodies. Those goodies won’t do any favors for your waistline, but did you know that holiday goodies also cause problems for teeth?

According to your dentist in Walla Walla, too much of a good thing is just as bad for your teeth as it is for your diet. Below are some foods to avoid if you want to keep your teeth healthy for the rest of the year.

Sticky Foods are Bad for Your Teeth

From sticky dates, dried apricots and figs to salt water taffy and your favorite caramel cookies, sticky foods stay put on your molars and in between your teeth. When left too long, sticky foods convert to bacteria eating away at the enamel on your teeth. While dried fruit is better for the scale, it won’t do your mouth any favors.

Carbonated Beverages Cause Tooth Decay

Sports drinks, sodas and energy drinks are loaded with sugar. Dr. Karmy from Wheatland Family Dental explains that sugar causes cavities. The carbonation in the drinks is just as bad as it increases bacteria and acid causing tooth decay. Instead of carbonated drinks, stick with water or a glass of wine if you must indulge in something alcoholic.

Hard Candy and Your Teeth

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t enjoy a candy cane during the holidays. Sucking on that white and red stick for a few hours is certainly satisfying, but it does cause problems. Firstly, it’s like bathing your teeth in a sugar bath. Secondly, you could break or chip a tooth.

Do your teeth a favor and steer clear of these holiday foods. Not only will you avoid a dental emergency, but you will also spend less time in the dental chair.

If you would like more information regarding healthy foods for teeth, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Walla Walla today.