During the holidays, it’s easy to get caught up in celebrating and let our routines slip. Keep these important dental care tips in mind this season so you can end the holidays with that healthy smile you started them with.
Keep up with your routine
The holidays can wreak havoc on your schedule, but you should still brush at least two times a day. Especially with all the sweet treats, you will surely be indulging in this season. Don’t forget to consistently brush and floss to keep plaque and sugars off your teeth. To keep up good habits on the go, stash a toothbrush and mini tube of toothpaste somewhere at work and make time to freshen up after meals. If brushing your teeth isn’t an option, chew sugarless gum, which helps flush out food debris, and more. Flossing once a day also helps to remove the debris and plaque that gets stuck between your teeth and gums, and it is one of the best ways to prevent gingivitis and tooth decay.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is so essential for your overall health, and fluoridated water is particularly important for your teeth. When you drink fluoride, it helps to fortify your dental enamel against decay. It also is a natural cleanser because it washes away leftover food and residue that cavity-causing bacteria love to thrive on. The bacteria in your mouth love to eat sugar and produce acid that wears away enamel. So instead of drinking sugary beverages all season long, try replacing that hot cocoa with hot water with a fruit infusion!
Avoid overdoing it
It’s the most wonderful time of year for chocolate, cookies, and candy canes. Unfortunately, this nonstop buffet of sugary treats can severely damage your teeth. You can still enjoy the season and indulge a little bit, just be sure to brush your teeth afterward. Snack smarter and choose your treats in moderation. If you have some sweets at the office after lunch, brush your teeth and snack on an apple or cucumber later. Not only are they packed with healthy nutrients, they act as natural teeth scrubbers.
Avoid teeth-staining drinks
When you attend parties and other social events, you will have a plethora of drinks to choose from. Unfortunately, many of these drinks can stain your teeth. Avoid tea, sodas, wine, and juice. All of these beverages contain ingredients such as acids, tannins, or sugars that are harmful to your teeth.
Keep your appointments
Skipping a dental exam can get you on the naughty list. If your checkup falls during the holidays, consider it a celebration of good oral health. It’s much better to get ahead of any tooth issues you may have before the New Year begins. Plus if you have any problems that need to be addressed it can be handled before the holidays hit and offices are closed. There is no quicker way to ruin a holiday celebration than a dental emergency that cannot be fixed.