Keep Your Smile Sparkling through the Holidays with Good Oral Health Habits

‘Tis the season for holiday celebrations, family gatherings, indulgent food and drink.  While enjoying the merriment, remember to maintain your oral health habits and keep your smile sparkling this season.

Be Mindful of your Sugar Intake
·         Holiday sweet treats are delicious and so tempting!  Enjoy the cookies, candies and drinks but remember that the sweet sugary foods often contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, eroding enamel which leads to tooth decay.
·         Tip-Drink plenty of water after consuming the sweets to wash away the sugars

Maintain your Daily Oral Hygiene
·         Remain diligent with your daily brushing and flossing.
·         Tip-Pack a travel size toothbrush, toothpaste and flossers so you can maintain your routines even in the midst of a busy holiday schedule.

Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods
·         Avoid sticky and hard foods such as toffees and caramels. They cling to your teeth and may cause you to chip or crack a tooth.
·         Tip-Opt for nuts, cheese or fruits instead.

Drink Plenty of Water
·         Wine, ciders, coffee and teas and can stain your teeth and increase the acidity of your mouth.  Staying hydrated is good for every part of you! Water washes away food and sugars, keeping your mouth fresh and hydrated.

Chew Sugar Free Gum
·         Sugar Free Gum increases saliva production and reduces the acidity of your mouth helps remove food particles.
·         Tip- Look for gum with xylitol which may reduce cavity causing bacteria.

Moderate Alcohol Consumption
·         Alcoholic drinks dry your mouth making your teeth more vulnerable to cavity and tooth decay.
·         Tip-Drink plenty of water after consuming an alcoholic beverage and chew sugar free gum to increase your salvia production.

Schedule a Regular Check-up After the Holidays
·         Prevention is always the best medicine!  Keep your smile sparkling all year long with regular visits to your dentist.  Early detection and treatments will prevent more serious issues.

Enjoy your Holidays!  Remember your oral health and you will be rewarded with a beautiful smile all year long. Plainsboro Dental Care is your partner for your oral health. Call to schedule your check-up today at 609-799-4422.