William Shakespeare’s famous play called Julius Caesar used a phrase called “the Ides of March,” which is typically employed along with a negative connotation. It refers to a gloomy month throughout history when a series of negative events seemed to happen annually. Conversely, the delicious foods and drinks you probably enjoy during the March holidays are enjoyable and fun. Although they may be tasty, they can pose a risk to your oral health if you don’t take care of your teeth after consuming them. Whether it’s International Pi Day, St. Patrick’s Day, or National Waffle Day, your Texas City Dentist has some great information to share with you about the goodies to look out for during the month of March and how you can still promote your oral health while enjoying them.
Foods to Watch Out for During the Month of March
It wouldn’t be a proper St. Patty’s Day celebration without green beer. And how can you honor the wonders of mathematics without a delicious slice of apple pie? Your teeth help you enjoy a multitude of treats during March, and here are some specific ones to be mindful of:
- Beverages or Desserts that are dyed with food coloring: Of course you know that beer isn’t green by nature, and the green-colored icing on the St. Patrick’s Day cookies and cupcakes you enjoy was white before food dye was added. While these colors make the desserts and drinks you’re enjoying more festive, they are also responsible for causing unsightly stains on your teeth. Make sure to brush or thoroughly rinse your mouth out with water after consuming them so that you can keep your pearly whites shining brightly.
- Pie: It’s gooey, often warm, comes in many flavors, and is nothing short of delicious, but pie on “Pi Day” isn’t always as friendly towards your teeth. The sugary sticky substance can easily cling to your teeth. Plus, the starch in the crust is a primary plaque-causing culprit. If you have the opportunity, try to make time to floss after enjoying a piece so that you can keep your teeth cavity-free.
- Candy and Cookies: From handfuls of chocolate gold coins to frosted green cupcakes and cookies, there are plenty of sweets to partake of on St. Patrick’s Day. Be sure to be mindful of your intake of these goodies. Although they taste delicious, they are packed full of sugar.
- Alcohol: When consumed in moderation, alcohol can be a fun additive to any celebration or get-together. St. Patrick’s Day tends to involve a higher amount of drinking than some other holidays, and the alcohol consumed is often high in sugar and acid content, and acid can wear down your tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay. If you do choose to imbibe this March, be sure to have some water handy so that you can stay hydrated and keep your teeth rinsed off in between drinks.
This March, you don’t have to sit out of enjoying your favorite holiday treats. Just remember to enjoy them responsibly and be sure to take good care of your teeth so that your next visit to the dentist is for a regular checkup and cleaning and not a toothache!
About the Author
When it comes to keeping your teeth healthy in Texas City, no one knows more than Dr. John Hackbarth. Not only is he highly skilled and educated, but he also mentors many of his peers across the country who have a deep respect for him. He loves building long-lasting relationships with his patients while making sure they are receiving the highest quality of unique treatment that each of them needs. Are you ready to schedule your next dental checkup? You can visit us online or call us at (903) 561-1122.