Tips for Good Dental Health During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and indulging in festive treats. However, if you're not careful all the sweets and holiday feasts can have a negative effect on your dental health. Supporting healthy teeth and gums during the holidays doesn’t mean skipping the yummy treats—it’s about making conscious decisions and keeping up with your oral hygiene routine.

One of the best ways to protect your teeth is to reduce the amount of sugary foods and drinks. Holiday goodies like candy, pies, and sugary drinks can cause cavities. When you do indulge, try to eat treats with meals instead of separate snack times. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), eating sugary foods with meals helps minimize the impact on your teeth, as saliva production increases during meals and helps wash away food particles.

Another important habit for healthy teeth during the holidays is frequently drinking water throughout the day. Water helps remove all of the sugar and acids from your teeth as well as keep you hydrated. If you’re enjoying a glass of wine or a holiday drink, alternating with water can reduce staining and acid exposure.

A regular oral hygiene routine is important, even during your busy holiday schedule. Brushing twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily should be unnegotiable. The ADA also prioritizes the importance of not skipping your night time brushing routine, as this is when plaque buildup from the day needs to be removed for healthier teeth.

Lastly, try your best to make smarter food choices during holiday gatherings. Eating crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery can help naturally clean your teeth and promote saliva production. Other tooth-friendly options are Cheese and nuts because they can remove acids and provide essential nutrients for enamel health.

It’s all about moderation, being consistent with your dental hygiene routine, and making tooth-friendly food choices. You can still enjoy the holiday season without your oral health being at risk. If it’s been more than six months since your last dental check-up, consider scheduling an appointment in the new year to ensure your teeth and gums are in tip top shape.