From the candy jar at the office to treats at holiday parties to sweets made at home, the holiday season tends to be filled with temptations. There’s nothing wrong with indulging your sweet tooth a little, but if you let yourself get carried away, your holiday celebrations could end with an emergency trip to the dentist. To make sure your teeth stay safe throughout the festivities, keep these 4 oral health tips in mind.
1. Enjoy Sugary Treats in Moderation
Many common holiday foods and beverages like candy canes, pecan pie, and hot chocolate tend to be high in sugar, which feeds the harmful bacteria in your mouth that can cause cavities. To protect your smile, it’s best to enjoy sugar in small amounts. Try to focus on foods that are beneficial for your teeth and gums instead. For example, the cheese served at many holiday parties is high in calcium, which is essential for tooth health.
2. Don’t Forget to Maintain a Strict Oral Hygiene Routine
You don’t want to get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays that you forget to take care of your smile. Even if you find yourself getting home late at night, you should still take the time to brush and floss before bed. To make sure you keep up with the right habits, you may want to consider setting a reminder on your phone or leaving yourself a sticky note in a place where you’re sure to see it.
3. Avoid Grazing as Much as Possible
Many holiday celebrations involve a full spread of food meant to be enjoyed throughout the day. However, grazing is less than ideal for your oral health. This is because when you eat, it takes time for your saliva to restore the pH balance of your mouth; constantly snacking extends the amount of time your teeth spend in an acidic environment and increases the risk of decay. In short, it’s safer for your smile to save eating for mealtimes.
4. Drink Water Instead of Wine
Wine is an acidic beverage, meaning it can weaken the enamel protecting your teeth. It can also potentially leave an unsightly stain on your smile if you’re not careful. In general, water is a much better choice if you need a drink; it can wash away food debris left on your teeth and gums, helping you maintain a clean mouth throughout the day.
With the above tips, you can enjoy spending time with old friends and seldom-seen relatives during the holiday season without having to worry about the long-term consequences for your grin. Remember that you can always call your dentist if you have any concerns about your oral health.
About the Practice
At Danville Dental Associates, multiple dentists combine their wide variety of skills and years of experience to help patients of all ages enjoy healthier smiles. You can trust our team with all of your family’s oral health needs, and we’ll do everything we can to make your experience a quick and comfortable one. To schedule a holiday consultation at Danville Dental Associates, visit our website or call (434) 793-4116.