The leaves are falling, pumpkins are everywhere, and it’s officially cool enough to wear flannels; it must be PSL (Pumpkin Spice Latte) season! After all, few things put you in the fall mood like the delicious taste of pumpkin, warm spices, and hot coffee. If you’ve been sipping on this autumn staple since September 1st, your heart may be full, but your teeth and gums may be at risk for a number of dental issues. A dentist in Brookfield is sharing how seasonal treats affect your teeth and seven ways to protect your smile!
How Pumpkin Spice Lattes (& Other Fall Treats) Affect Your Teeth
For decades, dentists have warned patients of the negative effects of consuming high-sugar beverages like soda and sports drinks. After all, when sugar interacts with the bacteria in your mouth, it produces an acid that effectively erodes the enamel. With this in mind, the American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 6 teaspoons of sugar daily. Unfortunately, seasonal beverages like the PSL contain 7 teaspoons of added sugar! So, it is safe to say that routine consumption of these fall treats can put you at risk of tooth decay, cavities, and unsightly stains.
7 Ways to Protect Your Smile
PSLs, apple cider, salted caramel hot chocolate, and other festive drinks are a staple of the season, so giving them up entirely may be out of the question. However, it is important to limit these treats to special occasions and implement the below tips for keeping your teeth and gums healthy:
- Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily.
- Use mouthwash regularly.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat a vitamin-rich diet.
- Be mindful of your sugar intake.
- Visit your dentist biannually for a dental examination and professional cleaning.
Whether you are a PSL fanatic or apple cider lover, it is important to keep in mind how sugary beverages like these can affect your teeth. That way, you can enjoy these seasonal treats on the occasions you do have them while simultaneously keeping your oral health in mind. If you do start to notice stains or feel tooth pain, contact your dentist right away!
About the Author
After earning her undergraduate degree, Dr. Navkiran Dhillon graduated with high honors from Boston University with her Doctor of Dental Medicine. She has continued to place an emphasis on education by completing numerous hours of continuing education courses and being an active member of multiple notable organizations, including the American Dental Association. If you are overdue for your biannual appointment, don’t hesitate to visit her website or give her a call at 413-967-7140.