Tips For a Cavity-Free Holiday Season
It’s hard to believe that December has arrived and, in a few short weeks, we are going to be celebrating the start of a new year. We can feel the excitement in the air and have heard from many of our patients about their plans during the holiday season. Some are enjoying the return of holiday traditions that were cancelled last year. Others are busy shopping for gifts and planning events and activities with family and friends. No matter your plans, we know that there will be an abundance of delicious foods and drinks during all of your celebrations. We wanted to offer some helpful tips to ensure that your oral health remains in top shape and you don’t experience any post-holiday cavities and decay.
Plan Your Meals and Treats
During holiday parties and events, it can be very tempting to sample all of the food over the course of your visit; however, eating frequently as opposed to one larger meal can lead to bacteria remaining on the teeth. We also recommend eating sweets shortly after your meal while your saliva production is higher. Drinking extra water with meals and snacks also helps to rinse lingering bacteria.
Limit Alcohol and Sugary Drinks
The holidays are a time when specialty alcoholic beverages are created, enjoyed, and seem to flow in abundance. While they might be delicious, be sure to enjoy them in moderation, as too much alcohol can lead to dry mouth and the extra sugar is not good for your oral health.
Don’t Forget to Clean Your Teeth
It can be tempting after a long day and night to forgo your oral hygiene routine. It is especially important after a night of celebrating to thoroughly brush your teeth and use dental floss to help remove any lingering bacteria from between the teeth and along the gumline.
If you experience a dental emergency over the holidays, be sure to contact our office located in Terre Haute, IN as soon as possible. We can determine if you need to be seen immediately. If it has been longer than six months since your last hygiene examination, we suggest scheduling your next appointment in the near future. We hope to see you soon and wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!
