Are You Naughty or Nice to Your Teeth This Year?

The holiday season is definitely one to look forward to, with sweets, treats and feasts abound! Between all the fun times with friends and families, we can often lose track of our daily dental care routine. Be sure to keep your dental care habits on the nice list! Check out our tips below on how to keep your smile bright and cavity-free:

1. Control your sugar consumption: We are surrounded by candy canes, Santa cookies, peppermint lattes, and caramel popcorns. Treat yourself, but do limit your consumption, especially if you are eating sticky candies or fudgy chocolates as they tend to get stuck to your teeth. Make sure you rinse your mouth with water after eating and don't forget to brush and floss your teeth twice a day.


2. Limit your alcohol consumption: We are not trying to kill your vibe, we promise! As much as this is the season for bottomless eggnogs and bottles of wine with dinner, unfortunately, red wine stains your teeth and too much alcohol dries up your mouth. That being said, consume everything in moderation and you are all set.


3. Drink water: We cannot stress this enough! Water can help wash away some food particles, especially after eating candy, sticky food, or consuming alcohol.


4. Sugar-free gum could be your next BFF: This is the season to be surrounded by unlimited snacks and delicious treats. Whether you are at work or at the mall, it's hard not to snack on these treats. We know brushing and flossing throughout the day is not possible; instead, chew on a piece of sugar-free gum after your meals. Chewing sugarless gum helps boost saliva, which can help flush out food remains and freshen up your breath.


5. Be prepared for emergencies: If you use your teeth as a nutcracker (which you really shouldn't) and crack it, or have your cavities pulled out by a sticky candy, be prepared in case this happens while our office is closed. Be stocked up on gauze, floss, and over-the-counter pain relievers for minor problems. For bigger emergencies, keep your Emergency Dental Hospital's number on speed dial!


6. Schedule a post-holiday cleaning: Once the holidays are over and you have added improving your oral health to your New Year's resolutions, come and book an appointment with us for cleaning so you're smiling brightly into the New Year!