During the holidays, two things are inevitable: yummy treats and family photos. It seems like around every corner, there’s a delicious bowl of sweets, cake, pie, and more. These holiday snacks all taste amazing, but they can damage your teeth. Keep reading to learn some easy tips on how to keep your teeth healthy for the holiday season from your dentist in Spring Lake. That way, you can indulge in your favorites while keeping your smile ready for the many photo opportunities.
Tip #1: Balance Treats with Mouth-Healthy Foods
Watch out for treats that are hard or sticky. These products stay in contact with your teeth for long periods of time, putting you at higher risk for cavities and decay. Chocolate is a good treat to indulge in because it can dissolve and wash away quickly compared to other sweets.
Try to balance out your sugary treats with foods that are good for your teeth. Nuts, gingerbread, cheese, peppermint flavored items, and more taste delicious, but they don’t harm your teeth like other holiday treats can.
Tip #2: Make Brushing Count
Even though you should, it can be hard to consistently brush during the holidays. But, since this time of year brings an influx in cavity-causing sugar, you should make brushing count. Brush your teeth for two minutes each session, using a soft-bristled brush with fluoride toothpaste. For the best cleaning, brush at a 45-degree angle, and make sure to brush your gumline and tongue.
Tip #3: Be Prepared for Travel
It’s easy for your oral health routine to get thrown off when traveling. That’s why you should keep a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, so you can take care of your mouth on-the-go. Keep these items in your purse or travel bag to give you easy access to your oral healthcare stash when it’s needed.
Tip #4: Drink Water
With all the sugary foods and beverages available this time of year, take a break from the seasonal coffee and hot cocoa to drink water. Most water contains fluoride, which is a natural cavity-fighting mineral. Water also rinses away food debris, plaque, and it keeps your mouth lubricated to curb the growth of bacteria.
Talk to your dentist when all the holiday chaos has settled down about a checkup and cleaning to make sure you got through the season without any dental issues. Now that you know these healthy holiday tips, you can take on this season of sugar the right way!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Edward J. Dooley was raised in Spring Lake, and he loves caring for patients in his community. He is a member of various dental organizations and attends continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on the latest dental techniques. He currently runs his own practice, and he can be contacted through his website or by phone at (732) 974-2288 for any questions.
