The holidays are a time of joy, festivities, and indulgence, with a wide variety of delicious treats available. December means family get-togethers and professional celebrations with colleagues and clients! But with all the tasty treats that are part of the fun, it’s important not to neglect your teeth. The last thing you want is oral health issues going into the new year.
Here are seven tips to protect your smile during the holidays and keep your teeth healthy while you celebrate:
1. Limit Sugary Treats
Sweet treats are a hallmark of the season, but enjoying them in moderation is key. Sugary foods and drinks fuel the bacteria in your mouth that cause cavities. Remember, if you even suspect you have an issue, please give us a call.
“Instead of snacking throughout the day with sweat treats, try to limit your intake of sugar to the end of a meal when your saliva production is higher,” advises Dr. Tony Thomas, lead dentist at Advanced Smile Care in San Antonio. “Saliva helps neutralize acids and rinse away food particles.”
2. Choose Healthy Snacks
At your next holiday gathering, skip the bowl of candy and grab something tasty from a cheese tray or fresh fruit platter. Healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cheese are not only great for your overall health but also kinder for your teeth.
These choices help minimize exposure to cavity-causing sugars and acids while providing essential nutrients that benefit your smile.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is your best friend when it comes to oral health. Water washes away food particles, reduces bacteria, and keeps your mouth hydrated.
Heading to a family gathering or a holiday shopping spree? Keep a water bottle handy. A quick rinse after cookies or cake can help maintain a cleaner, healthier mouth. If plain water isn’t your favorite, try sugar-free flavor additives to make it more enjoyable.
4. Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
We’ve all been there. It’s so tempting to use your teeth to open a bag, crack a nut, or hold something in a pinch. But this bad habit can lead to chips, cracks, or other dental emergencies.
“Cracking or breaking a tooth during the holidays is no fun and can be painful and expensive to fix,” warns Dr. Thomas. “Treat your teeth like jewels and not tools.”
5. Protect Your Teeth from Acidic Beverages
Holiday drinks such as wine, cocktails, and soda are often acidic, which can erode your tooth enamel. To protect your teeth, pair these beverages with water.
Alternating a cold glass of ice water between cocktails can help wash away acids and reduce the risk of damage. So go ahead and toast to the season—just keep a glass of water nearby. Cheers!
6. Brush and Floss Twice a Day
The hustle and bustle of those special holiday events, parties, and last-minute get-togethers can disrupt your brushing habits. So, don’t let your oral health care slide. Brushing and flossing are essential for removing plaque and bacteria. Make it a priority to stick to your twice-a-day routine.
If you’re out for the evening, consider packing a ‘go-bag’ with a small travel toothbrush and floss. A quick bathroom break to brush and floss will leave your teeth clean and your breath fresh for those late-night conversations!
7. Schedule a Dental Checkup and Cleaning
The end of the year is the perfect time to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning. Regular visits help us to catch issues early and ensure your teeth are in top shape heading into the new year.
“It truly is a great time to schedule that end-of-year checkup and cleaning,” says Dr. Thomas. “That way, we can spot any issues early, and you can head into 2025 with a healthy smile.”
The dental team at Advanced Smile Care is here to help you maintain your best smile, no matter the season. If you have any questions or need support, we’re just a call away.
From all of us at Advanced Smile Care, we wish you healthy smiles and all the best this holiday season!
