Sweet Treats To Sidestep During the Holidays

There is no shortage of beauty during the holidays including sparkling lights, glittering decorations, and perfectly wrapped gifts. There is also no shortage of sweet treats. Sweets are one thing dentists and general practitioners suggest their patients avoid. General practitioners want their patients to avoid sweets because the processed sugar contributes to weight gain and diabetes. Dentists want their patients to avoid sweets because the processed sugars cause tooth decay. Read on to find out what sweet treats to sidestep during the holidays.                                    

Sweets to Sidestep

Fruitcake: Fruitcake. The dreaded Christmas gift. Even though fruitcake is forever ridiculed around the holidays, there are people who actually love it.  However, it is not a friend to your teeth. The candied fruit is high in sugar and sticks to your teeth, similar to gummy candies that dentists suggest you refrain from eating. The base of the fruit cake is high in processed sugars as well. Both contribute to tooth decay.

Christmas Cookies: We know it’s nearly impossible to completely avoid Christmas cookies, but they should be eaten in moderation. They too are laden with sugar that can damage your teeth.

Fudge: Who doesn’t like fudge, especially if it’s chocolate. Fudge is thick, chewy, and sticky causing it to remain on your teeth which can contribute to decay.

Caramels: Caramels are also chewy, sticky treats that remain on your teeth for long periods of time. The consistency of caramels and fudge make it difficult for saliva to do its job by breaking them down and washing them away.

Holiday Drinks: While holiday drinks provide a sense of comfort and festivity, they also provide way too much sugar. While eggnog contains 20 grams of sugar per cup, hot cider with caramel sauce and whipped cream contains 65.

Candy Canes: Children love candy canes because they are a treat that lasts forever…practically…and that’s the problem. The sugar remains in your mouth as they slowly dissolve, and if you bite them you risk cracking or chipping your teeth.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.