Now that the year is coming to a close, it’s time to start thinking about the holidays. While travel plans and gift shopping are probably at the top of your list, your oral health is equally important. With busy schedules and decadent treats as hallmarks of the coming months, taking steps to protect your smile is a smart way to stay healthy throughout the season.
Our experienced team at Willow Glen Dental Center in San Jose, California, often counsels patients on oral healthcare during the holidays. Here, we share our five top tips for keeping your teeth and gums healthy into the New Year.
Holiday parties and family gatherings often feature Christmas cookies, alcohol, and fatty hors d’oeuvres. You don’t need to deprive yourself, but it’s good to think about portion control, especially if you want to protect your teeth. Sugary foods fuel the growth of cavity-causing bacteria, while drinks like wine and other spirits can cause inflammation that increases the risk of gum disease.
Opt for small portions whenever possible and rinse your mouth with water after snacks and meals to prevent food particles from collecting between your teeth and beneath your gums.
When you’re traveling across the country or attending multiple events each night, oral hygiene can take a back seat. However, twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup, reduce gum inflammation, and maintain fresh breath.
Try to stay prepared, regardless of plans. Carrying a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss in your bag or carry-on makes this much easier. Chewing sugar-free gum throughout the day can also be beneficial, as it increases saliva production and helps prevent plaque and bacteria from accumulating on your teeth.
Staying hydrated is beneficial for your entire body, especially your mouth. Keeping a water bottle on hand is an easy and effective way to wash away food particles and neutralize acids from drinks like alcohol and soda. It also keeps your mouth from drying out, which is a common cause of bad breath and increases the risk of tooth decay. Don’t feel like you have to avoid your favorite holiday beverages, but try following up each one with a glass of water.
Activities like wrapping presents and shelling nuts are often part of the holiday season, but if you aren’t careful, they can harm your smile. It might seem like a good idea to rip open a plastic package with your front teeth, but if you bite down at the wrong angle, you might end up chipping or cracking one. Keep anything that isn’t food out of your mouth and make sure your “junk drawer” includes the right tools, like scissors, a corkscrew, and a nutcracker.
When was the last time you visited the dentist? If it’s been more than six months since your last checkup, now is the perfect time to take action. After a dental exam and X-rays, we can identify potential areas of concern. We can also offer advice to keep your smile healthy and looking its best now and into the New Year.
Enjoying the holidays is an annual rite of passage, but your smile doesn’t have to suffer. By following these five tips, you can reduce the risk of cavities, periodontal disease, and dental emergencies. If you’d like to schedule a checkup or have a dental concern, contact Willow Glen Dental Center today. Call the office or send us a message.
