4 Tips on How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy During the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and indulge in all the delicious treats and drinks that come with it. However, you and your family can still partake in the celebrations while maintaining good oral hygiene. As you enjoy the festivities, it’s important to remember that sugary and acidic foods and drinks can be harmful to your teeth. Here are some tips on how to enjoy this special time while keeping a bright, healthy smile!

#1. Remember the Basics

The holidays can be a flurry of fun activities. In the midst of food, family, and fun, being mindful to maintain your dental routine will help your teeth stay healthy. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to help protect against decay and other oral health problems. Additionally, flossing at least once a day helps remove plaque buildup from hard-to-reach places in between your pearly whites and helps prevent cavities.

#2. Give Yourself Some Limits on Treats

Sugary treats, like candy canes and pecan pie, seem to be lurking all around during the holiday season! While partaking in the sweet stuff is part of enjoying this special time, important to limit your intake of them in order to protect your teeth and gums from harmful bacteria. You can always commit to having one per day while visiting friends and family. If you do indulge, try to brush or rinse with water afterward to help reduce the risk of cavities.

#3. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water not only benefits your overall well-being; it keeps your smile in great condition, too! It helps flush away food particles and harmful bacteria that may lead to tooth decay and other oral health problems. Water also helps stimulate saliva production, which can help neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.

#4. Keep Up with Your Dental Visits

Even though the last months of the year can be nonstop, dental visits are important for maintaining good oral health all year round. It is recommended to visit your dentist at least twice a year for a thorough checkup and cleaning. During the holidays, it’s especially important to visit your dentist to see if there are any issues can be addressed quickly before they become more serious problems.

With these tips in mind, you can still enjoy the holiday season without compromising your oral health. You will be ready to begin the new year with a healthy, radiant smile!

About the Author

Dr. Karen Ho and her team serve the families of Campbell and the surrounding areas. With over 20 years of experience, she continues to take at least 50 hours of continuing education, as well as being an active member of several dental associations. She provides a full range of dental services to keep you and your family’s smiles healthy and happy all year long! To schedule a checkup and cleaning, contact her through her website or call (408) 558-9444.