Well, it’s your favorite time of year: the holidays! All the joy, cheer, friends, family, gift giving, and of course, delicious food and sweets make this season simply magical. However, a lot of the common treats and candies can put your dental health at risk, leaving you with a not-so happy holiday. Thankfully, your dentist in Collinsville has some pro tips on how to enjoy all of the festivities without destroying your beautiful pearly whites.
Time it Out Right
Did you know that WHEN you eat sweets could have an effect on your smile? If you’re going to indulge in sugary treats that can cause tooth decay and gum disease, try to eat them with your meal rather than after. Eating produces saliva, which helps wash down excess plaque and bacteria that can collect on your smile. You should especially watch out for eating sweets right before bed without brushing your teeth!
Be Sure to Drink Water
Wine and other seasonal beverages are often irresistible, but they can cause stains and discoloration on your smile. However, drinking water can help wash away these liquids along with other lingering debris. Additionally, most tap water contains fluoride, which is a naturally occurring, cavity fighting mineral. That said, it’s best to make routine visits to the bathroom, bar, or kitchen for even a quick rinse of H2O.
Head for the Cheese Tray
At your next holiday party, go for the cheese and veggie trays right away instead of the sweets. Cheese contains cavity fighting agents and vitamins that strengthen teeth, and veggies can stimulate your saliva flow. Then, if you do want to indulge in some holiday chocolates or pie, you’ll have less risk of tooth decay!
Avoid Hard or Sticky Candies
Hard or sticky candies like taffy, toffee, caramel, lollipops, jawbreakers, and other sweets should be avoided at all costs! These items pose the greatest threat for your smile because they stay in contact with your teeth for longer periods of time. This gives the sugars a bigger opportunity to interact with the bacteria in your mouth, creating acids that eat away at your teeth. You should also watch out for holiday favorites like caramel covered popcorn, candy canes, peppermint bark, and other hard items because they can chip or crack your teeth if you aren’t careful. Instead, reach for some chocolate because it can easily dissolve in your mouth.
Now, you can confidently take on this season of joy while keeping your smile safe. Just remember these tips from your dentist for many happy and healthy holidays to come!
About the Practice
Dr. Michael Lavinder and Dr. Trey Richard are a team of dentists who have a passion for quality care. They believe in keeping their patients healthy even outside of the office, which is why they want you to know these pointers for safe holidays. For any questions, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (276) 647-1494.