As you prepare for your annual holiday feast with family and friends, you might notice just how much sugar-filled goodies grace your table each year. From puddings, pies, sweet potatoes, and candies, it’s no wonder the kids have a hard time going to sleep at night. It’s also no surprise why more people ditch their oral hygiene routines and overindulge in all the sweet delicacies that come only once a year. While the holidays can bring plenty of joy, they can also wreck your teeth and gums if you’re not careful. Learn how to protect your oral health with these 3 helpful tips provided by your local dentist.
Try to Limit Your Sugar Intake
If this seems impossible, you might assume it is, but it is not. Yes, some of the most delicious treats are filled with sugar, but too much of it can lead to bacterial growth and tooth decay. Ultimately, what you’re left with is a cavity-filled smile that will require much time and money spent in the dentist’s chair receiving dental fillings. Eggnog, red wine, apple cider, and pumpkin pie are common holiday staples this time of year, and while you may not be able to dismiss them completely, scale back on how much you consume. Once you are finished, make sure to brush your teeth or at least rinse your mouth with water to flush away any harmful bacteria and food particles.
Avoid Sticky Treats
The stickier the candy, the harder it will be on your dental restorations. Have a crown, filling, or bridge? Stay away from anything that is gummy or sticky, as it can cause your restoration to become loose or even fall out. Caramel, taffy, and even peanut brittle can stick to the chewing surfaces of your teeth, making it difficult to remove, and if pulled, can pop your precious crown right off and have you seeking the help of your emergency dentist. When asked if you would like one, kindly pass this time around.
Stick to Your Routine
Late nights playing games and traveling are both typical reasons people forgo their normal oral hygiene routine around the holidays. Unfortunately, this simple step can make you more vulnerable to decay and disease. When you opt not to brush, floss, or rinse your mouth in the mornings and at night, you allow anything you’ve consumed throughout the day to plague your teeth and gums. If you’re traveling, find a few minutes to stop into a restroom and quickly brush your teeth, floss, and rinse. If staying with family or friends and you forget to bring your own brush, ask to borrow an unused one or find out where the closest drug store is located. It’s not worth the potential damage you can do to your smile.
Don’t let tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease show up during the holidays. They’re unwanted guests that deserve no place in your mouth, so make sure they stay that way by following these three simple and easy steps to maintain a healthier smile this year.
About the Author
Dr. Rob Schumacher completed his undergraduate studies at Asbury College in Willmore, Kentucky. He then went on to the University of Kentucky and the University of Michigan for dental training. Dr. Schumacher is a nationally board-certified prosthodontist who is passionate about helping his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles, especially when this time of year rolls around. With so many tasty treats, he and his team encourage you to come in for a regular dental checkup and cleaning during the holidays, as it will improve your smile and keep decay and disease away through the new year. Don’t let your oral health take a turn for the worse. Find out how we can help you and contact us at (781) 334-3400.