Just like that, the holidays are right around the corner! Photos, gifts, family time, and of course, seasonal sweets and snacks are just some of the traditions around this time of year. However, the holidays also bring an uptick in cavities and tooth decay because of the typical candies, cookies, cakes, and more that seem to be around every corner. Thankfully, your dentist in Carlisle has some tips for a healthy and happy holiday season!
How Can the Holidays Destroy Your Teeth?
This wonderful time of year brings so many treats, baked goods, candy, and so much more that can turn a Grinch into someone full of holiday cheer. However, these treats can also be detrimental to your smile. Candies and sweets that are hard or sticky stay in contact with your teeth for longer periods of time, increasing your risk of cavities and tooth decay. Sugarplums, gumdrops, taffy, toffee, caramel, and other holiday favorites can be the healthy smile’s worst nightmare, which is why it’s best to avoid these types of sweets altogether.
Be especially careful of holiday treats like:
- Candy canes
- Crunchy cookies like peppermint
- Peanut brittle
- Pecan pie
- Caramel popcorn
- Holiday drinks like hot chocolate
Steps You Can Take for Healthy Holidays
While it may be ideal for your smile (and your waistline) to avoid all of these treats, even the strongest of people must indulge every once in a while.
Watch What You Eat
If you’re going to eat sweets, try eating them with your meal instead of alone. This promotes saliva flow, which naturally washes away cavity causing plaque and bacteria. You can also drink water for the same effect. Red wine and darker drinks that are common during holiday parties can stain teeth, but a quick rinse of water in the bathroom or kitchen can minimize your risk!
Try These Instead
Also, try heading for the cheese or fruit plates instead of the smorgasbord of candies and sweets. Cheese contains natural cavity fighting agents and fruits like apples serve as a natural toothbrush, scrubbing away excess plaque and bacteria that linger on your smile.
Nothing Beats a Good At-Home Routine
Because avoiding sweets entirely over the holidays is almost impossible, it’s more important than ever to maintain your normal brushing and flossing routine. Be sure to brush twice a day for 2 minutes each, paying special attention to your gumline. You should also floss to get rid of any bacteria and plaque caught in between your teeth. And, once the holidays are done, be sure to see your dentist for a checkup and cleaning to ensure that your smile is in tip-top shape.
Are you ready to take on the holiday season? Remember these tips to keep your smile healthy while enjoying all of your favorite festivities.
About the Practice
At Carlisle Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Thomas Neslund and Dr. Eric Weed are an experienced team of dentists who are dedicated to quality care for their patients. They’re always willing to pass along pro tips for healthy smiles. If you have any questions, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (717) 258-5455.