The holiday season is here, and with it comes friends, family, festivities, and of course – food. Wonderful meals, delicious treats and everything in between are a big reason this is a much-loved time of year. To ensure that you keep your mouth clean and healthy while still enjoying the best of the season, here are some tips to balance oral hygiene with the celebrations:
Keep Up The Routine: This time of year, it’s more important than ever to keep up with your daily oral health routine. Brush at least twice per day for two minutes each time, floss daily, and use mouthwash as needed. And when you’re booked up with holiday parties, you can clean your teeth on the go with travel-sized toothbrushes and even sugarless gum.
Balance Sweet Treats with Healthy Eats: We would never tell you to stay away from the special holiday treats altogether – we want you to enjoy them! But balancing them with healthier options like carrots, apples, and other tooth-friendly foods will help clean your mouth and neutralize bacteria. Luckily, there are often veggie trays at holiday events.
Keep Water Handy: Keeping hydrated also means keeping your mouth well-rinsed. Have a glass of water with you whenever possible, and make sure to drink between meals and snacks. If you’re drinking sugary cocktails, a glass of water afterward will help to flush out the bad bacteria that cause cavities.
Avoid the Worst Culprits: Some holiday desserts and treats are worse than others. If you’d like to cut out the ones that can cause the most harm, try to avoid hard or sticky candies, items high in sugar, or anything that may get stuck in your teeth when you’re not able to brush or floss right after.
It’s also a smart idea to book your family’s dental cleaning and check-ups before the holiday season, to ensure your teeth are in the best shape possible. Call Southeast Dental in Markham at 905-471-2002, or book online via our appointment form. With a proper cleaning and the tips mentioned above, you can enjoy the best of the season with a healthy smile. Happy Holidays!