You might have heard that the holidays can be a bad time for your dental health. It isn’t a rumor. Your risk of many preventable oral health problems increases during the holidays for various reasons, like eating more sugary treats. It’s not uncommon for people to let their oral hygiene habits slide during the busy time of year. The season doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your dental health. Here’s how you can enjoy the holidays while keeping your teeth and gum healthy.
Brush After Every Meal
If you snack more often during the holidays, a few extra pounds aren’t the only concern. Your teeth are exposed to cavity-causing bacteria more often. Therefore, it’s important to brush after every meal. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least 2 minutes. Create a travel dental kit to make it easy to keep your mouth clean while on the go.
Don’t Forget to Floss
Your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in your mouth, leaving up to 40% of your teeth surfaces uncleaned. Flossing is the only way to remove the buildup your toothbrush left behind. Strive to floss at least once a day to prevent gum disease.
Limit Sugars and Starches
Sugar cookies, eggnog, candy canes, and stuffing are staples of the season, but they contain sugars and starches. The remnants of your sweet treats feed bacteria that can erode your enamel over time. No amount of brushing can reverse a cavity. Limit your consumption of sugars and starches to safeguard your enamel. If you can’t resist a cookie or stuffing, brush your teeth after you finish.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol is a recipe for disaster because it causes dehydration, which will decrease your saliva production. A dry mouth is a great environment for oral bacteria growth that can result in unpleasant odors, tooth decay, and gum disease. It’s best to moderate your alcohol consumption and drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and your mouth moist.
Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup
Don’t skip your semi-annual cleaning and checkup. Your dental hygienist will clean and polish your teeth to ensure they look their best. Your dentist will examine your mouth to check for anything that might interrupt your holiday plans, like a cavity. You’ll head into the holidays with a beautiful, healthy smile that you’ll be proud to share with your friends and family.
Giving your teeth and gums the attention they deserve will prevent you from hearing any bad news during your next dental exam.
About Dr. Steven Bizzell
Dr. Bizzell earned his dental degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and completed 3 years of additional training in periodontics. He also specializes in dental implants. Dr. Bizzell is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Request an appointment through his website or call (718) 210-9634.