Super Bowl 50 is Here!
We Know You’ll Be Watching, but
What Will You Be EATING?
This Sunday, February 7th, 2016, is Super Bowl 50….The Golden Super Bowl. The Super Bowl is often the most-watched American television broadcast of the year and it is among the most watched sporting events worldwide. Millions will be gathered with friends and family in front of the biggest TV they can find to watch for fun, football, and food.
Even if you are not a football fan or your team is not in the “Big Game,” you still may host or attend a Super Bowl. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Super Bowl is the second-largest day for U.S. food consumption after Thanksgiving Day. And as we all know, the Super Bowl just isn’t the same without super commercials and super snacks.
To make your Super Bowl party a touchdown, here are some (tooth) healthy tips from McGann Facial Design that will make your dentist proud:
Limit the Wings
We know, we know. Wings are a staple of a good Super Bowl party. But be careful, especially if they are honey barbecue. The glaze on these wings can be extra sticky and sugary, guaranteeing that it’ll linger long after the game is over. If you do go for some wings this Sunday, you may want to bring a toothbrush to get the remaining glaze off your teeth. At the very least swish and rinse well with water afterward.
Put Fresh Fruit & Veggies to the Menu
Apple slices, pears, strawberries and other berries are great for your teeth and gums. The veggie tray is a staple at parties. Celery, carrots, and dark leafy greens are just a few of the healthiest foods for your teeth. Crisp veggies stimulate the production of saliva in your mouth, rinsing away cavity causing buildup. Try these crunchy veggies with hummus for a satisfying, protein-rich dip.
Skip the Beer. Skip the Soda.
What would a Super Bowl party be without beer? Beer and football just go together, but is dangerous for your teeth (and your waistline) due to its high sugar and calorie content. Over the course of the game, you may find yourself sipping several beers, and the American Dental Association states that this can contribute to tooth decay. On the flip side, everyone these days knows that soda is bad for your health, but it is also bad for your teeth. These acidic beverages can do a real number on your teeth, even if you choose a brand without any sugar in it. We know no beer or soda doesn’t leave you many options…so, if you want to enjoy these drinks, then use a straw to minimize contact to the teeth.
Makeover that Chili
Chili is a Super Bowl favorite, it can feed a hungry crowd and stay warm in a crockpot all day long. Add ingredients that are healthy for your body – like vegetables, beans and calcium-providing cheese – you’re doing your teeth a favor as well.
Hydrate Up!
Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the game. It’s the primary component of saliva, which protects the teeth against “acid attacks” caused by bacteria, and it’s indispensable as the final rinsing agent for foods and sugary drinks.
Sneak Away to Brush
Take a travel toothbrush and toothpaste to the party. Once you’re done eating, head to the bathroom and brush your teeth. This not only helps clean the surfaces of your teeth and prevent decay, but the lingering flavor of toothpaste can deter you from overeating.
Getting together with friends to watch the Super Bowl is an American tradition. A Super Bowl party demands Super Snacks…but not at the expense of your teeth! Of course, no one is perfect. But hopefully these ideas will help make game day a little more tooth-conscious!
