The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, and where tasty treats often take center stage. From savory mashed potatoes and gravy to sweet gingerbread cookies and candy canes, it’s tempting to savor these delicious offerings. However, amidst the festive feasting, it’s crucial to remember that excessive consumption of sugar and starch can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Here are some quick tips to ensure your teeth stay shining bright!
Schedule Your Check-Up
During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, remember to keep your regular dental appointment. It’s the perfect time to talk to your Smile dentist about using up your end-of-year benefits and guarantee your smile stays radiant.
Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
While it may seem fun to channel your inner reindeer and use your teeth to open packages, it’s one of the leading causes of chipped or broken teeth during November and December. It can also damage existing dental work, such as fillings or crowns. Stick with scissors to avoid dental disasters.
Choose Teeth-Friendly Snacks and Stay Hydrated
Be mindful when nibbling on nuts with tough shells and put your nutcracker to good use! After all, it’s not just for decoration. If the holidays are already too nutty for you, consider snacking on cheese or veggies instead. These options not only satisfy your cravings but are tooth-friendly snacks.
Additionally, if you’re sipping hot chocolate or Eggnog, balance it out with plenty of water to stay hydrated. Fun holiday drinks can leave behind food particles and bacteria.
Chill Out
The holiday season can bring about stress, which can lead to teeth grinding or clenching, causing wear and tear on your teeth. To manage stress, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or go outside to check out your neighbor’s holiday lights!
Wear a Mouthguard for Winter Sports
When gearing up for winter activities like skiing or snowboarding, don’t forget to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury during potential falls or collisions.
While the holiday season may be a break from our regular routines, it’s essential to ensure your dental health doesn’t take a vacation, too. Your smile deserves as much attention during this season as any other time of the year. A bright smile is the best accessory for any festivity.
We wish you a season filled with smiles, laughter, and delicious, tooth-friendly treats!