From stuffed stockings to New Year’s parties, there is no shortage of opportunities to indulge in a variety of holiday treats. But while you may be celebrating by munching on seasonal snacks, your teeth may be subjected to a less joyful experience. Committed to providing optimal dental care in Cincinnati, OH, Lowitz & Meier highlights a few common cavity culprits that pop up around the winter season—and the healthy alternatives you can enjoy instead.

5 Holiday Snacks That Cause Dental Care Dilemmas  

1. Candy Canes

Cavity-causing oral bacteria thrive on sugar—and candy canes are almost entirely comprised of the sweet stuff. And when you crunch on this peppermint stick, the pressure can chip teeth and cause prosthetics—such as porcelain veneers and dental crowns—to crack. If you’re looking for a way to stay fresh, try chewing on a sugar-free peppermint gum.

2. Caramel Popcorn

Popcorn tins are a classic holiday gift that can end up giving you cavities, particularly if you enjoy the caramel-covered varieties. Caramel sticks easily to teeth, leaving sugar to feed oral bacteria. Fortunately, unbuttered popcorn is a solid alternative that’s considered a safe “detergent food”—or a snack that help scrub teeth clean. Just avoid crunching down on any kernels that can get lodged in your teeth.

3. Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies may go down easily, but eating too many of them will mean attacking your mouth with cavity-causing ingredients. If you’re looking for a more tooth-friendly cookie, gingerbread typically contains less sugar.

4. Cherry Cordials

From the milk chocolate cover to the sugary liquid center, cherry cordials deliver double-duty damage on teeth. Instead of opting for this holiday treat, it’s usually better to snack on a fresh fruit plate.

5. Hot Cocoa

Although it may not involve chewing, hot cocoa—especially the pre-mixed variety—can layer teeth in dangerous levels of sugar. Luckily, there are plenty of hot chocolate recipes out there that aren’t so heavy on the sweetness. For example, you may indulge in a sugar-free cup of warm dark chocolate with calcium-fortified milk.

While avoiding these treats can do a lot for your dental health, it’s not always possible to steer clear of holiday confections. If you do pick up a sweet treat, Lowitz & Meier recommends rinsing your teeth with water soon after and maintaining a solid oral hygiene routine. Visit their website to learn more about their comprehensive dental care services or call (513) 521-8900 to schedule a convenient appointment.