The holidays have arrived so let the memorable celebrations with your friends and family begin! Oftentimes, this means there will be a lot of delicious foods and plenty of traveling. While these are special moments, they can, unfortunately, wreak havoc on your oral health if you are not being mindful of your dental habits. Here are four tips from your dentist in Dallas to keep your smile happy and healthy for 2023!
#1: Stay on Top of Your Daily Dental Routine
It’s easy to fall out of a normal routine during the holidays, between traveling or having loved ones visit from out of town. While taking the time for your friends and family is important, be sure to keep up with your daily brushing and flossing routine. Neglecting it can easily lead to tooth decay and gum disease. These serious oral health concerns can negatively impact the look and function of your smile. If you are unable to tend to your teeth right away, chewing on some sugar-free gum can help in the meantime!
#2: Do Your Best Not to Snack
During mealtimes, your saliva production is highest. Why does this matter? Saliva helps keep your teeth free from harmful bacteria and washes away food particles. On the other hand, snacking throughout the day increases your risk of cavities. Plus, most people aren’t in the habit of brushing after each snack compared to full meals. It’s best to try to limit your treats between meals or at least enjoy them as close to your breakfast, lunch, and dinner as possible. This will keep your pearly whites protected as much as possible.
#3: Enjoy Sweet Treats in Moderation
It’s common knowledge that sugar can have detrimental effects on your teeth. Well, the holidays are a time of the year when you are tempted by it constantly, from pies to candy. As a matter of fact, candy canes are made entirely of the sweet stuff! It may seem impossible to avoid the various goodies, especially when celebrating with others. The good news is that you don’t have to forego them completely. Just enjoy them in moderation and be sure to brush at least 30 minutes after eating them.
#4: Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Have you ever gotten a gift that is hard to open, and you use your teeth to tear the plastic? Unfortunately, the holidays can tempt you to use your pearly whites in ways that aren’t best for them! While you may automatically use them as tools due to convenience, you should avoid doing so at all costs. It can result in serious harm to your dental health…as well as your bank account. Instead, wait for the proper tool or ask someone for a helping hand.
By prioritizing your oral health with these tips, you can keep your smile whole and healthy throughout all the joys of the holidays!
About the Practice
Midtown Family Dentistry of Dallas has a full team of dentists ready to keep your oral health in tip-top condition throughout every season! They provide a complete range of services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. With late hours and open on the weekends, you and your family’s smiles are their top priority. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (469) 529-6016.