The holiday season brings with it wonderful foods and fun-filled experiences. But just because it’s the holidays, doesn’t mean you should neglect your teeth. It’s possible to enjoy the holidays to the fullest while still maintaining a healthy, bright and beautiful smile. The following are some tips for caring for your teeth during the holidays.
Stick to a Daily Dental Health Routine
The holiday season is always busy and you may be struggling to fit everything into your schedule. However, a daily oral health routine should be at the top of that to-do list. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day will ensure that one of the holiday gifts you give yourself is a healthy mouth.
Naughty or Nice?
If you eat something deliciously naughty, you can balance that out by being extra nice to your teeth! If you can’t pass up some gooey, sticky, chewy or sugary foods, do so in moderation. This includes things like candy canes, chewy nougats, hard nuts, gummies, and even ice cubes. And don’t only assume that these foods can only cause tooth decay. A misplaced nut or extra gooey fudge could help to dislodge a long-forgotten filling or crack a precious crown. If you feel your dental work or teeth are at risk if exposed to decadent treats, it’s best to avoid temptation and stick to healthy alternatives like fresh fruits, veggies and whole grains.
Choose Clear or Light-Colored Beverages
While drinks like red wine and cranberry juice are delicious, they also can stain your teeth. To prevent this, choose clear or light-colored drinks like champagne or sparkling cider. They’re still quite tasty but won’t have the staining effect of some other drinks. You may also want to dilute juices or wine with seltzer water; this not only extends the life of your drink, it will keep you better hydrated.
Teeth are for Eating, Not Opening Things
You’d be surprised how many people visit the dentist around the holidays because of a chipped or broken tooth caused by using their teeth to open things. Teeth are for eating, not for opening bottles or packages! By using your teeth as a tool, you can weaken the enamel and wear away at the edges of your teeth, causing them to break or crack.
Have a Travel Dental Kit Ready
Odds are that you’ll be out and about this holiday season, not always near your house and able to brush and floss as much as you’d like. The simple solution is to carry a portable dental cleaning kit with you. This kit can include a travel-sized toothpaste, toothbrush, and some dental floss. This allows you to care for your teeth even when you’re on the go. Don’t forget to toss the kids’ toothbrushes in there as well!
Plan for Next Year
If you are not happy with your smile, you may consider seeking out treatment now so by next year your smile will dazzle! Whether considering teeth alignment, fixing or getting a new crown, bridge or implants, now is the time to consult with your dentist to provide enough time for your magic new holiday smile to emerge next year!
Don’t neglect your teeth during the holidays. Let the gentle and compassionate dentists at Dedicated Dental address all of your dental needs. Our friendly and helpful staff welcome your call and looks forward to serving you. If you have any questions, or to schedule an appointment or consultation, please call (702) 566-5509. You can also request an appointment online.
