The holiday season is all about savouring tasty food and enjoying time with loved ones. While the holiday festivities can be distracting, it’s crucial to maintain your oral health during this time. Here are a few easy tips to help you maintain a healthy smile while embracing the holiday spirit.
1. Practicing Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth is the most important habit of good oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for two minutes, twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed.
Don’t forget to brush your tongue too. It will keep your breath fresh. Lastly, remember to floss your teeth a minimum of once a day to eliminate food particles and plaque between your teeth.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is great for your teeth and overall health. It naturally rises away food particles and bacteria, helping to maintain a moist mouth and healthy gums. Prioritize drinking water after eating sugary or acidic foods to rinse away the harmful residue left on your teeth.
3. Be Careful with Sugary and Sticky Foods
Holiday treats such as candies, cookies, and cakes are delightful but can harm your teeth. The bacteria in sugary and sticky foods are known to contribute to cavities. Sticky treats like caramel and gummy candies can adhere to your teeth, making them more challenging to clean properly.
Limit the amount of sugary and sticky foods you eat. If you do indulge, make sure to brush your teeth afterward or sip on water.
4. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum can help maintain oral hygiene between festive meals and throughout holiday gatherings. Chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps to wash away food particles and bacteria. Look for gum that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that helps to prevent cavities.
5. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
It may be tempting to use your teeth to open packages or crack nuts, but this can lead to tooth damage. Chipped or broken teeth can be painful and may necessitate a visit to the dentist. Remember to always use the appropriate tools, such as scissors or nutcrackers, instead of your teeth.
6. Visit the Dentist
Even during the holiday season, dental clinics remain open for patients. If you have remaining benefits, dentists will make every effort to schedule appointments for you and your family to ensure you receive your annual dental cleaning and check-ups.
Fun Ways to Take Care of Your Teeth
Finding it challenging for you and your family to stay on track with oral hygiene habits? Here are some fun family tips:
- Brush to Music: Find a song you like that lasts about two minutes, and brush to the beat!
- Floss Challenge: Challenge your family members to a floss-off. See who can floss all their teeth the fastest or come up with the most creative way to floss.
- Make Healthy Snacks Together: Spend time with your family making healthy, teeth-friendly snacks. Try making a fruit and cheese platter or baking some healthy oatmeal cookies.
- Create a Brushing Chart: Make a chart to track your brushing and flossing. Reward with a sticker or a checkmark for each brush and floss. At the end of the week, treat yourself and your family with a small treat or a fun activity.
Want a Reliable Smile Ally?
At Totally Dental, we aim to provide you with exceptional care and comfort. We offer a range of comprehensive services, including dental check-ups and cleanings during the holiday season. If you are looking to book last minute, we will make every effort to accommodate your schedule. If you encounter any tooth issues, don’t hesitate to visit a dentist in NE Calgary.
Remember to brush and floss daily, stay hydrated, and make wise food choices during the holiday season. By following some easy dental care practices, you can maintain a healthy and radiant smile. Happy holidays, and keep smiling!