How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy Over the Holidays: With all the craziness, it’s not easy
The holidays are here. Your calendar is probably full of family gatherings and parties. Your co-workers keep bringing cookies and snacks to the office. And, there’s just generally a lot going on.
This time of year, it’s easy to let your guard down and forget about your dental routine. Things are hectic enough, but you can still enjoy the holidays while maintaining a healthy smile.
Here are some tips on how to keep your teeth healthy while you enjoy the holiday season.
Don’t overdo it with the sweets
The most wonderful time of the year usually comes with a buffet of the most wonderful sweets. Candy canes, cookies, popcorn: all of these sweets can ruin the enamel on your teeth. You don’t have to skip the holiday treats, but just don’t overdo it. And, remember to rinse your mouth with water and brush soon after eating sweets.
Drink plenty of water
Just because pumpkin spiced lattes are king during the holidays doesn’t mean you should forget your old pal, water. Water helps to combat sugar’s effects, so it can prevent stains, remove bacteria, and keep cavities from building up in your mouth. Drink water while you’re eating sugary foods, as well as while drinking wine or champagne. Water can minimize the staining of your teeth caused by alcohol.
Keep a routine
The holidays are extremely chaotic and busy. We know. But, it’s important to keep to your usual oral hygiene routine. Continue the habit of brushing your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Brush again after eating sugary foods.
While we know it’s not always possible to brush your teeth right after eating dessert, keep sugar-free gum on hand for when you can’t brush. Chewing gum will help increase your saliva flow, which will reduce the bacteria in your mouth.
Keep dental appointments
During the craziness of the holidays, you may be tempted to skip your regular dental checkups. If your six-month checkup happens to fall during the holidays, don’t put it on the back burner. The last thing you want is a dental emergency during the holidays. Keeping your regular checkup will put your mind at ease that you’ll have a healthy smile during the holidays.
It’s OK to get a little off track during the holidays. But, once they’re over, get right back to your routine. And, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist in the New Year. It’s just as important as honoring your six-month checkups.
Give us a call at (303) 759-5652 or send us an email at info@willowspringdentist.com. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.
