If there is one thing that goes hand in hand it’s the holidays and sweets. From gingerbread cookies to homemade banana nut bread, a handful of chocolate bark, and it wouldn’t be Christmas without sugar cookies, would it? It’s generally hard to avoid sugar-filled foods once Halloween rolls around. What tends to happen between now and New Year’s Day is that we fail to incorporate a method of keeping our teeth and mouth protected from bacteria that can build when we add more sugar to our diets. Not to worry! You won’t make the same mistake this season because we have five, easy to follow tips for keeping your teeth healthy and vibrant throughout the holidays.
1. Drink Water
The holidays are a busy time of the year. Between getting things done at work and mentally planning your Thanksgiving dinner, you often forget to do one important thing and that is to drink water. The stress of the season might mean that you find yourself snacking more often and reaching for sugar-filled beverages. Instead of choosing a soda, choose water. Drinking more water will keep your teeth and mouth a whole lot healthier than a beverage that is full of sugar. Another reason you’ll want to start drinking more water is that the holidays generally involve more parties and dinners, you should save those occasions for sweet beverages.
2. Brush, Brush, Brush!
Just because you’re allowing yourself to be lenient on your diet, doesn’t mean you should neglect to care for your teeth. You should, in fact, be more attentive to your teeth. Attempt to brush your teeth after every meal. If you can’t do that, try to floss after meals or do a quick rinse with water in the bathroom. The goal is to remove as much leftover food as possible.
3. Don’t Forget to Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash should be an everyday component of your routine. The ingredients in mouthwash help disinfect your mouth, including your gums. It can also help flush out any left behind residue.
4. Mix in Some Healthy Options with Your Meals
Balance is always key! Make sure that your plate still looks colorful. Try adding a side salad to the menu or have a bowl of fruit instead of sweet bread. To keep your teeth and overall body healthy, incorporate more vegetables to your diet and save your favorite foods and goodies for special dates like Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
5. Schedule a Teeth Cleaning.
If you have vacation time set aside, why not catch up with your much-needed doctor visits? Scheduling a teeth cleaning during the holidays can be just what you need to motivate you to care for your teeth now and the months to come. Don’t wait until next year to start taking care of your teeth! Get a head start. A dental visit during the holidays also means that any potential cavities or gingivitis will be taken care of now before it gets worse.
Visit Lee Trevino Dental, Today!
We want you and your family to have the happiest and healthiest holiday season! Taking care of your teeth is an important aspect all year round. By incorporating these tips, your teeth won’t suffer the consequences of eating more sweets than usual. And don’t forget to schedule your next cleaning! Give us a call today.
