When it comes to the holidays, there is a lot to look forward to. From the music to the movies to spending time with loved ones, there’s no wonder why this season is a favorite of many. As fun as the holidays may be, they can do a number on your oral health. Continue reading to learn about three reasons why the holidays are the worst time for your oral health as well as three ways you can prevent these issues.
#1: Eating Too Many Sweet Treats
For many people, the foods of the holidays are the best part. Cookies, cakes, eggnog, apple cider, and all other types of tasty treats or common during this time of year. Since these seasonal sweets will disappear back into the holiday vault at the end of the season, many people find themselves filling up on as much as they can. Unfortunately, the sugar in these foods and drinks feeds the oral bacteria that cause cavities.
#2: All-Day Snacking
Along with consuming too many sweets foods and beverages, the frequency at which you eat and drink can also affect your smile. This is because the acid levels in your mouth go up when you eat or drink anything other than water. As a result, snacking or taste-testing holiday punches all day long we’ll put your pearly whites under a constant acid attack. This will weaken your enamel and raise your risk of tooth decay.
#3: Keep Up with Your Oral Hygiene
Practicing good oral hygiene is one of the best ways to keep dental issues at Bay. Unfortunately, the busyness of the holiday season may cause people to fall off track with their oral hygiene routines. Brushing and flossing less often than you’re supposed to will make you more likely to experience gum disease, cavities, and other oral health problems.
3 Ways to Protect Your Oral Health
Though the holidays are often a dangerous time for your smile, there are several things that you can do to counteract it, including:
- Eat less sugar – Cutting back on the number of sweets you eat will sharply lower your risk of tooth decay. You should also cut back on foods that are high in carbs, starches, and acids. Fill up on dentist-approved foods and drinks like dairy, nuts, fish, fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.
- Wait until mealtimes – Rather than snacking throughout the day, wait until mealtimes to eat and drink. You can also follow up with a refreshing glass of water since this will neutralize some of the acid in your mouth as well as wash away bacteria and food particles.
- Make a dental travel kit – This should contain a toothbrush, dental floss, mouthwash, and toothpaste. Bring it with you wherever the day takes you so you can always step away for a few minutes to clean your pearly whites.
As busy the holidays can be, these tips should help you better manage oral health risks. This way, you can make it to the end of the season with your teeth as healthy as before!
About the Practice
Dr. Christine Root, Dr. Clifford Sneed, and Dr. Elisheva Tinsley lead the team at Bruner Dental. They truly love what they do, which is apparent in the quality of care that they offer their Marion patients. They offer a variety of exceptional treatments to help you keep your oral health in good shape during the holidays and beyond. If you are ready to set up a consultation with Bruner Dental or want to learn more about the services they offer, visit their website or call their office at (765) 613-3128.
