How to Keep Your Smile Safe This Holiday Season

The holiday season is almost here! Whether you are stringing up lights around your house, planning some get-togethers with relatives, or breaking out the old family cookbook for a wholesome meal, you have plenty to look forward to. However, with so many delicious holiday foods, your oral health is more likely to suffer. Luckily, your dentist is here to help. Here are some tips that can help you to keep your smile safe throughout the holiday season.

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Just because your daily routine is thrown of doesn’t mean it’s okay to do that same with your dental hygiene regimen. Be sure to continue brushing twice and flossing at least once every single day. Rinsing with a mouthwash is also a great step to include. If you are traveling, even if it’s just overnight at a family member’s house, don’t forget to pack your toothbrush and dental floss!

Stay Hydrated

As tempting as it is to reach for a can of soda or a glass of wine, drinking plenty of water is necessary for great oral health. Water helps by washing away lingering food particles, neutralizing harmful acids, and preventing dry mouth from occurring. If you are really looking for something fizzy, try having sparkling water instead of soda. If you’re looking for an adult beverage, try something less acidic, like a gin and tonic.

Limit the Sugary Treats

With candy canes, chocolate, and baked goods all around, it is hard to say no to a sweet treat or two during this time of year. However, your teeth will pay the price if you have to many. Be careful to limit the amount of these foods you consume. Instead, try to stick to healthier sweet options like fresh fruit or sugar-free gum. When you do decide to have a treat, remember to clean your mouth thoroughly afterwards.

Make Healthy Choices

The good news is that not all holiday foods are harmful for your teeth. In fact, many of them have numerous benefits for your smile. Be sure to save a larger portion of your dinner plate from turkey and veggies. Turkey contains phosphorus and protein which is necessary for you to keep your teeth strong. Vegetables like broccoli and carrots are high in vitamin A which helps to strengthen your enamel.

Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Your teeth are meant for you to chew your food and smile, not to be used for opening up stubborn packaging or cracking open bottles or nuts. Instead, ask someone to help you or go get the tool you need to get the job done.

The holidays are a time we all look forward to, but you certainly don’t want to be dealing with cavities in the new year. By following the tips above and seeing your dentist for regular cleaning and checkups, you will be able to come out of the season with a strong, healthy smile!

About the Author

Dr. Ukti Phadnis earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from the UConn School of Dental Medicine and is committed to completing continuing education courses focused on a wide variety of different treatments. For more ways to keep your smile healthy this time of year or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Phadnis at her office in Wethersfield, visit her website or call (860) 400-3007.