For many, the holiday season is one of the most exciting, joyous times of the year. Unfortunately, it’s also a time that could have serious consequences for your oral health. If you’re not careful during the festivities, you could easily end up with a cavity. Below is a closer look at how the holidays can affect your teeth as well as the preventive steps you can take to keep your smile safe.
The Holidays and Your Oral Health
During the holiday season, you may end up enjoying more sweet treats than usual, from cookies to candy canes to pumpkin pie. The bacteria in your mouth can feed on the sugar in these snacks and create acid as a byproduct. Over time, acid exposure can wear down your enamel and lead to cavities.
Furthermore, the wine and cocktails that are often served at holiday parties can potentially cause problems for your smile as well. Alcoholic beverages can reduce your saliva flow and increase your risk for dry mouth. This condition can leave you more susceptible to tooth decay because there’s less saliva to wash away harmful bacteria and neutralize acids.
On top of that, the hectic nature of the holiday season can make it difficult to keep up with your oral hygiene routine. Between shopping, traveling, and going to late-night parties, you may find yourself forgetting to brush and floss. Needless to say, failing to maintain good oral hygiene can have a dire effect on the health of your smile in the long run.
Taking Care of Your Smile During the Holidays
If you don’t want cavities or other oral health problems to interrupt the festivities, it’s a good idea to follow these simple tips during the holiday season:
- Try to limit your intake of sugary foods. Indulging in a sweet treat every once in a while won’t hurt, but you should avoid constantly snacking on sugar throughout the day.
- When enjoying an alcoholic beverage, be sure to drink plenty of water as well. This will keep you hydrated and help combat dry mouth.
- Maintain a consistent oral hygiene schedule. Remember to brush at least twice a day and floss on a daily basis. When traveling, don’t forget to pack a toothbrush along with a tube of toothpaste and some dental floss.
By taking the right precautions and making a point of protecting your teeth, you can continue to enjoy the holiday season to the fullest while also continuing to enjoy a healthy smile.
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Tang went to Seattle Central College for dental hygiene school, and she earned her dental degree at the University of Washington, where she also completed an oral and maxillofacial surgery internship. At Complete Dental Care of Sumner, she offers a wide range of services to help her patients protect their smiles. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tang during the holiday season, visit her website or call (253) 863-8138.