Ready to enjoy this holiday season?
You can’t wait for the presents, decorations, food, tasty desserts, and drinks!
But hold on; what happened to your commitment to look after your shiny smile?
Holiday treats are often not good for oral health. Does that mean you have to give them up? Not really.
In this article, dentist Harrisburg NC., a professional dentist office, will share 6 tips to take care of your oral health during the holiday. You’ll learn tricks to enjoy this season’s fun without harming your beautiful smile.
Is Your Smile At Threat During The Holiday Season?
Let’s be honest; regardless of how much we pledge we won’t overindulge in treats this holiday, we always end up enjoying a little too many sweets.
That’s not a crime. Holiday food is delicious, and we only get to savor it once a year.
However, sugar and teeth are not the best of friends.
When we eat excessive candy and sweets, the bacteria in our math feed on these sugars, turning them into acids that harm our teeth’ enamel (the teeth protector layer).
The same happens with sugary and alcoholic beverages.
The continuous exposure to acids can be particularly hazardous for your oral health.
6 Tips To Keep A Bright Smile These Holidays
Do you worry about your oral health this holiday season?
Good news is you can make merry and still protect your bright smile.
Follow these professional tips to enjoy the holiday magic while taking care of your smile:
- Stick To Your Oral Routine
This one goes without saying. You must stick to your oral routine during the holidays.
We know the holiday season can be busy, but maintaining good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes.
Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and floss once daily to remove food particles and plaque. Consistency is key to preventing tooth decay and gum issues.
- Enjoy Sugary Treats Responsibly
Holiday desserts and treats are irresistible… Sugar cookies, candy cane, chocolate truffles, gingerbread cookies, and the list goes on and on.
Sadly, sugary and sticky treats are harmful to your teeth.
We are not asking you to give up on holiday desserts. Instead, limit your intake of sweets, caramel, and sticky treats. And don’t forget to brush your teeth at least twice everyday. This simple habit will significantly reduce the risk of developing cavities.
- Try Some Teeth-Friendly Snacks
Did your dentist recommend that you look after your oral health this season? Or do you simply want to take your oral care a bit further?
Luckily, there are plenty of healthy options you can switch to.
Add cheese, nuts, fruits, and crunchy veggies to your holiday spread. You’ll enjoy delicious snakes that are friendly to your teeth.
Do you still want the desserts and classic treats?
We hear you. After all, Christmas and New Year’s treats are an important part of the holiday fun.
If you go online, you’ll find hundreds of healthy versions of your favorite recipes. It might take a bit more work since you’ll have to bake them yourself, but many taste as good as the originals and are far healthier!
- Pack Dental Essentials When Travelling
Are you planning a holiday getaway? Or are you visiting family for the season?
There is so much to prepare when taking a holiday trip. You must pack your cozy winter clothes, some nice outfits for the celebrations and parties, presents, and other vacation/travel essentials.
We know the list is long; however, you mustn’t forget to pack some dental essentials.
Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. Just 3 items. That’s all you need to take good care of your smile while away from home.
You can always add a mouthwash, emergency dental kit, retailers, or anything else you consider necessary.
Are you on the plane and just realized you left your dental kit at home?
Don’t worry; this is not a “Home Alone” situation. As soon as you arrive, make sure to go to a pharmacy and get the dental supplies you’ll need.
- Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
This tip might come as a surprise for some and not so much for others.
If you are reading this and use your teeth to open snack backs, tear presents’ wraps, crack nuts, or engage in other activities unsuitable for teeth, this one goes for you.
Your teeth are meant to support you chewing food for proper digestion. They also help with speech and provide a beautiful smile.
But that is it.
Don’t use your teeth for any other tasks. They can lead to chips, cracks, or other dental hazards. Avoid such problems by using proper tools.
- Schedule a Dental Check-Up
Last but not least, schedule an appointment with your dentist for after the holidays. This is one of the busiest seasons for everyone, so make sure to book it in advance.
You may or may not overindulge in sweet treats and drinks. But it’s better to be safe than sorry.
And there’s nothing like starting the new year by caring for your beautiful, white smile.
At the check-up, your dentists can perform a professional cleaning, catch oral issues early, and ensure you keep a shiny smile.
Enjoy The Holiday Season Fun While Caring For Your Smile
Now you know that holiday desserts and drinks can potentially harm your teeth. But you also know 6 new ways to enjoy this season while caring for your smile.
Follow these simple tips to keep a bright and healthy smile throughout the festivities.
