The holidays have arrived! As we reflect on the previous year and look forward to the next, now is the time to celebrate with family and friends. While the holiday season is a happy time for many people, it can also be a time when we struggle to keep our teeth and gums healthy. Sweet treats, red wine, and coffee can all be tempting during the holidays, so the team at Premier Periodontics has a few tips to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy:
Bring a toothbrush with you for after dinner.
Brushing your teeth twice a day is an important part of your oral health routine, but you should also brush after any large meals during the holidays. Foods like turkey can get stuck in your teeth, and there will almost certainly be cookies, pies, and cakes for dessert. Packing an oral healthcare kit with a toothbrush, travel toothpaste, floss, and a mini bottle of mouthwash allows you to give yourself a quick cleaning after dinner and keep your mouth as healthy as possible.
Maintain Your Regular Oral Health Routine – Even when on the road
Traveling during the holidays can disrupt your normal oral health routine. You don’t have to give up with a little planning.
Keep Hydrated
Dry mouth can contribute to a variety of oral health problems, including cavities and gingivitis. Drinking plenty of water boosts saliva production, making it easier for your body to naturally eliminate harmful mouth bacteria and keep your teeth and gums in good condition.
Consume sweet foods in moderation.
We don’t want to tell you that you shouldn’t indulge in sweets during the holidays, but moderation is key for your oral health. The more sugar you consume, the more harmful mouth bacteria flourish, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a few sweet treats; just keep your teeth in mind and know when enough is enough.
Avoid Consuming Staining Beverages
Coffee, tea, red wine, and food-colored icing are just a few of the staining foods and beverages you’re likely to encounter during the holiday season. Be aware that these items can cause unsightly stains on your teeth, so switching to a different beverage or avoiding foods with high levels of coloring can help keep your smile looking its best.
Make a New Year’s dental appointment.
Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash are all important components of your oral health regimen, but so is visiting the dentist every six months. If you haven’t been to the dentist since the spring or summer, now is the time to make an appointment so you can start 2022 with the healthiest mouth possible.
