The holidays are a time of joy and celebration. From the exchange of gifts to the laughter shared with friends, family, and loved ones, there’s always a reason to smile. Also, there’s the ever-present temptation of holiday treats.
If you want to have confidence in your smile, it is vital that you keep your teeth healthy. This is easier said than done when you’re surrounded by sugar cookies and comfort foods, saturated in stress, and removed from your routine.
Don’t worry, though! Whether you’re using cosmetic dentistry to boost your holiday confidence or searching for a way to combat the negative dental influences that surround you during the holiday season, we’ve put together a few tips to help keep your teeth happy and healthy!
Be Selective When You Indulge
You will likely be surrounded by delicious holiday sweets this season. No one can be expected to turn down every tempting goodie, and neither should you. However, there is nothing wrong with being selective about which treats you indulge in.
While you should try to limit the amount of sugary foods you eat, it is especially prudent to avoid hard candies and chewy treats. Sticky foods—like caramel, taffy, and other similar substances—can cling to your teeth, contributing to the decay of enamel. Hard candies (looking at you, candy canes) can cause discomfort in sensitive teeth and even cause chipping.
If you choose to indulge in hard and/or chewy treats, make sure you’re conscious of how you eat them. Don’t crunch hard candies—just let them dissolve—and be sure to drink plenty of water to help remove the food particles that stick to your enamel after enjoying chewy treats.
Stick to a Routine
Whether you’re traveling, having people over, taking time off work, or simply getting wrapped up in the chaos of the holiday season, maintaining a routine can be challenging. From flossing to keeping that appointment with your dentist, making time for anything is a more difficult during the holidays.
You can create time for dental care by having a to-go kit that you keep in your purse, briefcase, or car. A travel tube of toothpaste and spare toothbrush can go a long way to keeping those pearly whites healthy when traveling or staying out late.
Also, make sure your dentist has your current contact information. They’ll be sure to send you reminders of appointments you may have made a few months ago and forgotten in the hustle and bustle of the season.
Drink Water
With eggnog and hot chocolate galore, it can be easy to pass on water in favor of something a little merrier. Drinking enough water is not only vital for staying hydrated and healthy, but for keeping your teeth clean as well.
Drinking water naturally flushes little crumbs and food particles from your mouth, effectively reducing the damage they can cause. Even if you do indulge in holiday drinks or adult beverages, follow them up with a glass of water—your teeth will thank you!
Our Final Thoughts
Keeping your teeth healthy during the holidays is exceptionally challenging. Those first impressions with your in-laws or laughs shared with friends are worth it, though. That’s why you should feel confident in your smile and work diligently to maintain its healthy glow!
You may even wish to have some cosmetic dentistry performed as the holidays approach. Feeling the freedom to flash your smile when the moment is right is invaluable! It’s important to always have a family dentist on call.
With these three tips, as well as any advice from your dentist, you’re prepared to keep your smile shining bright and your teeth feeling happy and healthy!