The holidays are a time for celebration and spending time with family and friends. But they can also be a time when your oral health suffers. Between all of the sweets and treats, it can be tough to keep your teeth healthy and sparkling.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of seven tips to protect your teeth during the holidays. Follow these tips and your bright, white smile might just survive!
1.Eat plenty of vegetables
As the holidays approach, we all begin to think about ways to protect our teeth. Eating plenty of vegetables is one way to do just that. While you may not realize it, vegetables are actually natural toothbrushes. They help to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, and they also provide essential nutrients that keep your gums healthy.
So, next time you’re looking for a way to protect your teeth during the holidays, reach for some carrots or celery instead of sugary candy or sticky cake. Your teeth will thank you!
2. Avoid those sticky, sugary snacks
We know —the holidays are the perfect time to enjoy countless varieties of seasonal sweets. But if you’re looking to protect your teeth during the holidays, it’s best to avoid these sugary, sticky snacks (or limit your consumption of them).
The longer sugar stays on your teeth, the greater the risk of cavities. So, if you must indulge in holiday sweets, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards (or rinse). And try to limit sugary snacks to mealtimes, rather than snacking on them throughout the day.
3. Brush your teeth more often
The holidays are a time for indulgence, and that usually means more candy, cookies, and cake than usual. While it’s fine to enjoy some holiday treats, it’s important to brush your teeth more often to protect your pearly whites. The sugar in holiday sweets can cause cavities, and the increased acidity levels can wear down tooth enamel.
By brushing your teeth after every meal and rinsing after every round of sugary snacks, you can help to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities. Additionally, be sure to floss regularly to remove any bits of food that might get stuck between your teeth. With a little extra effort, you can enjoy the holidays without worrying about damaging your teeth.
4.Drink plenty of water
Drinking water is important for your overall health, and it can also help to protect your teeth during the holidays. Water helps to wash away sugars and acids that can damage your teeth, and it also keeps your mouth hydrated.
This is especially important if you’re consuming alcohol during the holiday season, as alcohol can cause dehydration. So, be sure to drink plenty of water —it might just save your teeth!
5. Use a straw when drinking sugary beverages
Sugary beverages like soda and fruit juice can be damaging to your teeth, but you can help to protect them by using a straw. When you drink through a straw, the sugary beverage bypasses your teeth and goes straight to the back of your throat.
This helps to prevent tooth decay and cavities, as well as keeping your teeth looking white and bright. So, next time you’re sipping on a sugary holiday drink, be sure to use a straw!
6. Wear a night guard
If you find that you often wake up with a sore jaw or tension in your jaw, there’s a good chance you may be grinding your teeth while you sleep. This can be a result of a number of underlying problems, but the best way to protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding is to wear a night guard.
Night guards provide a barrier between your upper and lower teeth, and they can help to prevent the damage caused by grinding, and reduce the amount of tension you experience the next day. If you think you may be grinding your teeth at night, talk to a specialist at JS Dental Lab about getting a custom-fit night guard.
7. See your dentist immediately after the holidays
Once the holidays are over, it doesn’t mean you can stop taking care of your teeth. In fact, it’s important to see your dentist for a routine cleaning and check-up immediately after the holiday season.
This will help to remove any plaque or tartar that might have built up on your teeth, and it will also allow your dentist to check for any signs of damage. By seeing your dentist regularly, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and strong —no matter how much holiday candy you consume!
Conclusion
The holidays are a time for indulgence, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your oral health. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy all your favorite holiday treats without damaging your teeth. So, go ahead and indulge wisely —your teeth will thank you for it!