The holiday season is upon us, and while you’re probably looking forward to celebrating with your friends and family, it’s important to remember that this time of year can be risky for your teeth. It’s all too common for dentists to find cavities after the holidays, and that’s due to several factors. The following post explores why the upcoming celebrations can be dangerous for your oral health – as well as what you can do to keep your smile safe!
How the Holidays are Bad for the Teeth
Obviously, sugar is a major contributing factor for oral health issues during the holidays. From candy after Halloween to pecan pie on Thanksgiving to candy canes during Christmas, chances are you’re indulging in more sweet treats than usual. When the bacteria in your mouth are exposed to sugar, they produce acids that can lead to tooth decay.
Another issue is that on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, people tend to spend much of the day eating and snacking. Constantly putting food in your mouth gives your saliva less of a chance to wash away the food debris and bacteria that cause cavities.
Finally, if you’re planning on traveling during the holidays, it can be all too easy to stray from your normal oral hygiene routine. You may forget to pack your toothbrush, or you might stay out so late that when it’s time for bed, you fall asleep right away without brushing or flossing. Without a consistent oral hygiene routine, your risk for tooth decay will be much higher.
How You Can Keep Your Teeth Safe During the Holidays
Luckily, there are several steps you can follow to protect your smile throughout the holiday season while still taking part in the fun! Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Carry dental floss and a travel-sized toothbrush with you so that you can clean your teeth throughout the day.
- Avoid consuming too many sugary treats. Instead, focus on healthy holiday foods like cranberries, turkey, and vegetables.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to rinse away food particles that might be left in your mouth.
- Try to avoid snacking. Only eat at mealtimes whenever possible.
- Set a reminder on your phone so that you don’t forget to brush and floss even while traveling.
- Schedule a checkup with your dentist so that they can catch any currently developing oral health issues while they’re still small.
The key to taking care of your smile throughout the holiday season is to be aware of potential oral health threats and take whatever steps are necessary to avoid them. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy your time with your loved ones without having to worry about cavities afterward!
About the Author
Dr. Eric L. Tolliver is a proud native of Springfield, MO, and he loves being able to help his neighbors enjoy healthier smiles. In the past, he has served as president of the Greater Springfield Dental Society and a delegate for the Missouri Dental Association. If you’d like to schedule a holiday appointment with Dr. Tolliver at Galleria Dental of Springfield, visit our website or call (417) 887-5757.