As the holiday season approaches, joy and merriment fill the air, accompanied by festive gatherings and delicious treats. While the holidays bring cheer, they may also bring increased risk to your dental health. But are the holidays really that bad for your oral health? Your dentist certainly seems to think so!
If you want to see why the end of the year’s festivities are known as the worst time for your teeth, continue reading. These traditions, habits, and foods may be dragging down your oral health.
1. Beware of Candy Canes to Preserve Oral Health
Ah, the iconic candy cane – a staple of holiday sweets. While they add a festive touch to decorations and gifts, these sugary treats can wreak havoc on your teeth. The prolonged exposure to sugar, coupled with their hard texture, poses a double threat.
Sugar is the number one enemy of oral health as it stimulates harmful bacteria in plaque. This bacteria is responsible for producing acid that erodes your tooth enamel and causes cavities. To combat this, try to enjoy them in moderation and opt for smaller versions.
2. Watch the Wine
As you raise a glass to toast the season, it’s important to be mindful of the effect of alcohol on your oral health. Wine, in particular, is highly acidic and can stain your smile. This means that your teeth are first eroded by the acid and then infiltrated by dark pigments that discolor your pearly whites.
To lessen the effect, sip water between glasses and brush 30 minutes before drinking. Doing this can help mitigate these risks.
3. Don’t Skip Brushing to Improve Your Oral Health
Amidst the comings and goings of holiday festivities, it’s easy to let your oral care routine slip through the cracks. This is especially prevalent in families that do a lot of traveling for the holidays. It can be difficult to find resources to take care of your teeth properly when you’re on the road.
However, skipping brushing or flossing will allow plaque to build up and cause dental issues. Make a conscious effort to stick to your regular oral care routine, even when your schedule is brimming with holiday engagements. If necessary, create and carry a travel-sized oral health kit with your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss in it.
4. Loosen-Up on the Leftovers
After the holidays, a surplus of delicious leftovers is often left behind. While this is great for your budget, these leftover foods can often lead to grazing. You obviously don’t want the food to go to waste! Because of this, you may start eating more meals per day to consume the extra food before it spoils. If you’re eating leftovers, stick to regular mealtimes and portions.
While the holidays may pose challenges to your dental health, awareness and moderation can help preserve your smile. The joy of the holidays doesn’t leave a lasting mark on your teeth! If you need help once the holidays are over, visit your dentist for a checkup. They’ll be glad to see you being responsible for your oral health!
About the Practice
At Marvel Dental & Orthodontics, a team of highly knowledgeable and passionate dentists is waiting to take care of all your dental needs. Whether you need a filling or a full-mouth restoration, the team can provide it. With state-of-the-art dental technology, your customized treatment plan will be effective, painless, and affordable. To schedule an appointment, call (682) 772-3072 or visit the website to learn more.