Festivals in India are incomplete without a table full of mithai, boxes of chocolates, crispy snacks, and endless rounds of treats offered to guests. it is not so for the teeth, cautioned orthodontist Dr Aditi Nedungadi in an interaction with HT Lifestyle While that might be a party for the taste buds.
The high-sugar diet during the festive season can significantly raise the risk of cavities. However, Dr Nedungadi shared five mindful eating habits that can help one indulge in the festivities while keeping the teeth healthy. Rather than snacking on sweets all day, the orthodontist suggested eating sweets with meals. She explained that saliva production increases during meals, helping neutralise acids and wash away food particles.
“Water is a better choice for keeping your mouth hydrated and helping rinse away food particles,” shared Dr Nedungadi. “Drinking water after eating sweets can help clear some residue from your mouth.”
As Dr Nedungadi stated, “After late-night parties and post-dinner celebrations, it can be all too tempting to skip brushing before bed. But it’s a good habit to maintain, even on the busiest of days. Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. Festivals are meant to be enjoyed, and sweets are often part of the tradition. By being mindful of how often one eats sugary foods and maintaining a consistent oral care routine, the orthodontist stated that we can celebrate without compromising our dental health.
