How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Happy this Holiday Season

The holidays are upon us! While holiday lights and cute reindeer adorn the streets and shop windows, it seems holiday treats are around every corner. With the overwhelming amount of sugar plums and Christmas cookies this season, how can you keep your teeth healthy? Here are some tips from the experts on how to make the most of this holiday season while also keeping your teeth and mouth in tip-top shape.  

Stay on top of your oral health routine

It’s difficult to stay on track during the holiday season. However, one of the best ways to prevent cavities is brushing twice a day and flossing. If you are going on vacation or traveling for the holidays, it’s difficult to keep regular routines. Don’t let your oral care fall by the wayside. 

Drink water

There are a lot of fun cocktails, mocktails, and chocolaty drinks that are quintessential holiday fare. While it’s just fine to imbibe now and then, your teeth will thank you if you keep up with your water intake. When you drink sugary or acidic drinks with low pH, the bacteria in your mouth can shift and become harmful. Water is pH neutral and can help balance the environment and keep your teeth feeling great.  

Give the gift of dental care

A great self-care gift is keeping your dental appointment. Don’t let the busyness of the holiday season keep you from seeing your dentist. If you have a dental appointment in December or January, make it a priority to keep it. It is easy to de-prioritize appointments this time of year, but do yourself a favor and keep your appointment, your mouth will thank you.

Plan when to indulge   

The holidays are full of friends and family and should be enjoyed. But, with work parties, school parties, and family gatherings that extend from Christmas into the New Year, there is ample opportunity to indulge in all the holiday treats. Try to stick to foods rich in calcium and low in sugar if possible. Plan what you will eat before you get to the party to limit the temptation to indulge. 

Smart stocking stuffers

Instead of stuffing stockings with chocolate and candy canes think of alternatives that don’t include sugar. Small items like lip balm, gloves, or books are great alternatives to the sweets.  

Use tools, not teeth

There are many ways you can damage your teeth during the holidays. Take special care to keep your teeth in good shape by avoiding certain behaviors. First, don’t crack nuts with your teeth. You can easily crack or chip your teeth when using them instead of the proper tools. Refrain from opening packaging with your teeth. Use scissors or a pocket knife to open toys and games, not your teeth.  Hard or sticky foods can also cause dental issues. When you can, pass on these and opt for something easier on your teeth. 

Stay on the nice list

Don’t forget about your oral health this holiday season. You can have a memorable holiday with friends and family while keeping your teeth healthy and bright! If you need to schedule a dental appointment, contact A Smile by Design!

The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.