This is the time of year to enjoy plenty of delicious meals while spending time with friends and loved ones. However, the holiday season can also be challenging on your pearly whites. With all the different foods available, you can end up increasing the risk of dental problems if you aren’t careful, such as cavities and tooth discoloration. Fortunately, you won’t have to hold off on your favorite holiday foods if you keep your oral health on track. Read on to learn five tips on preserving your smile during the festive season!
#1: Remember to Brush Regularly
Whether you’re gift shopping, going to holiday parties, or spending time with loved ones, these next months are typically the busiest ones. For this reason, you’ll want to make sure to maintain a good oral hygiene routine to preserve your teeth. This should involve brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with mouthwash frequently. These habits can be easily forgotten during the festive months, which can put you at risk of cavities, stains, or even damaged teeth if left unchecked.
#2: Maintain a Well-Balanced Diet
Choosing healthier meals can help you effectively avoid cavities during the holidays. Be sure to munch on fibrous raw fruits and veggies, which can help scrub away any sugars in your mouth. Eating calcium-rich foods can also promote healthier enamel. You should also drink plenty of water to help wash away any cavity-causing particles from your smile.
#3: Relax Often & Get Plenty of Rest
Feeling stressed can sometimes cause you to stress-eat and chew on hard objects or even grind your teeth at night. This can wear down your teeth over time, making them vulnerable to bacteria and further damage. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, make sure to rest often and feel free to relax during the holidays. Be kind to yourself and spend quality time with loved ones to help both your mental health and pearly whites.
#4: Eat Sugary Treats in Moderation
Everyone knows that sugar is detrimental to oral health. However, avoiding sugary treats during the holidays can prove a difficult task. That’s why you’ll need to choose your snacks wisely to prevent dental complications. Keep clear of hard and sticky sweets like peanut brittle, taffy, caramel apples, and peppermint bark, which can wear down your enamel. Sticky sugars can also get stuck in hard-to-reach places in your mouth, exposing your teeth to bacteria for prolonged periods. Try munching on treats like pumpkin pie, peppermint patties, and fudge (without nuts) that are easier to clean out.
#5: Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Checkups
Before the holiday rush hits, it’s a good idea to schedule your second dental checkup if you haven’t already. Your dentist can detect any developing issues and provide the necessary treatment to stop them early on. You’ll be able to enjoy the festivities while showing off a confident and healthy smile.
Keep these few tips in mind during the holiday season. You’ll be sure to fully enjoy your favorite foods while preserving your pearly whites in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. James Shahinian studied at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He also regularly seeks continuing education and is a member of the American Dental Association. He offers a wide selection of high-quality services, including checkups/cleanings, periodontal therapy, nightguards for bruxism, and fillings. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 973-729-9044.