The holidays are all about festive treats, and while sugary goodies seem to take center stage, there are plenty of delicious options that can keep your smile healthy and shining. Here’s a lineup of holiday snacks and treats that bring a little joy to your taste buds—and are easy on your teeth too!
Festive Cheese Boards With Fruits and Nuts
Cheese boards are a holiday staple, and they’re a great choice for your teeth. Pairing cheese with fruits like apples or pears adds crunch and natural sweetness while boosting saliva production to help rinse away food particles. Throw in some almonds or walnuts for an extra boost of calcium and protein, helping keep your teeth strong. Add some grapes or even a touch of dark chocolate for a pop of sweetness, and you’ve got a balanced, smile-friendly spread that feels both festive and indulgent.
Dark Chocolate Delights
If you’re a chocolate lover, dark chocolate is a wonderful choice over caramels or candy canes, which can stick to teeth. Dark chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate and contains compounds that might actually help fight bacteria in the mouth. Try dark chocolate bark sprinkled with crushed nuts, dried cranberries, or coconut shavings—a treat that feels gourmet and is better for your teeth.
Holiday-Inspired Fresh Fruit Platter
Swap out some of the candy bowls for a colorful fruit platter. Try oranges, berries, and apples arranged in holiday shapes, like wreaths or candy canes. Oranges add a festive burst of vitamin C to support your gums, while apples offer a natural scrub for your teeth. You can even dip apple slices in a bit of melted dark chocolate for a fun (and healthy!) twist.
Warm Drinks With a Twist
Instead of sugary hot cocoa or sweetened coffee drinks, try a spiced tea with cinnamon sticks or a ginger-infused green tea. For a richer drink, try a hot chocolate with a little less sugar and top it with whipped cream for a bit of festive fun. If you want something unique, try making a mulled apple cider with fresh apple slices and cinnamon, which can add flavor without the added sugar.
Smarter Sips: Tooth-Friendly Alcohol Choices
Alcohol can be acidic and sugary, but a few smart choices can reduce the impact on your teeth. Try sticking to lower-sugar options like sparkling wine or dry red wine, which are a bit less acidic than sugary cocktails. If you’re in the mood for something festive, try a vodka soda with a splash of cranberry juice and a twist of lime for a holiday touch. Just remember to alternate alcoholic drinks with water to help wash away acids and stay hydrated.
Enjoy the Season With Blue Valley Smiles in Overland Park, KS
Celebrating with tasty, tooth-friendly treats makes it easy to enjoy the holidays while taking care of your smile. Dr. Rachel Karabas, Dr. Todd O’Neil, and Dr. Michelle Bhaskar at Blue Valley Smiles in Overland Park, KS, wish you a joyful season filled with all the best flavors and a healthy, happy smile! Contact us today to schedule your next checkup and start the New Year with a confident, healthy smile!