As the holiday season rolls in, it means it’s about time to begin enjoying some of the most festive and delicious foods in existence—stuffing, mashed potatoes, pie, and of course, cranberries! Whether enjoying them as a sauce or on their own, they elevate any holiday meal tenfold. However, you might be wondering, despite their nutritional benefits, how they impact your teeth and gums? Here’s what you need to know.
How Cranberries Impact Your Teeth & Gums
Cranberries are naturally acidic, meaning that they can temporarily soften your enamel, or the outer layer of your teeth, when they’re consumed. Over time, weakened enamel means you’re more vulnerable to issues like cavities and decay.
But the problems don’t stop there—many cranberry dishes also have added sugars, which make matters worse. Plus, cranberries are also relatively sticky, especially dried cranberries or sauces, meaning particles can stay stuck on the teeth long after you’re done eating, further fueling cavity-causing bacteria. You also must take into account the fact that cranberries are dark, richly-colored fruits, meaning they can contribute to dental staining, especially when consumed over long periods.
All of this considered, it’s still important to note that cranberries do have some positive properties; they contain compounds that can help prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth, lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy While Enjoying Cranberries
You don’t have to give up cranberries entirely this holiday season—that would make things far less merry and enjoyable! That said, there are a few tips you can implement to be sure you’re keeping your teeth healthy, no matter how often you find yourself enjoying cranberries and other festive dishes:
- Rinse with water immediately after eating to wash away some of the cranberry particles before they have the chance to settle on your teeth.
- Avoid snacking on cranberries and instead eat them with a meal, since you have more saliva while you’re eating and therefore, more cavity protection.
- Use a straw when drinking cranberry juice to minimize the amount of contact it makes with your teeth.
- Don’t go to bed without brushing and flossing your teeth!
Cranberries are a delicious part of many holiday traditions, but knowing what good and what harm, especially when in the form of festive dishes, they can do to your smile is key.
About the Practice
Our team here at West Brookfield Dental serves patients and families in West Brookfield and the surrounding area, offering a wide range of services, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, as well as same-day emergency dentistry. If you have any questions or you’d like to schedule an appointment, contact our office for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 637-5140.
