There is a lot to look forward to during the Holidays. Family, Friends, Time Off, the Joy of Giving, World Peace, and Food. Food is the main ingredient in the recipe for a great holiday besides Family and Friends. This time of year we are besieged by delicious food. From Thanksgiving dinner to New Years, turkey, ham, wine, cranberries, pumpkin pie, champagne, winter ales and oh! so many more kinds of food and drinks are set out before us to be unabashedly consumed while merrymaking with friends and family. Hopping from one house or party to another, soaking up as much “holiday spirit” as possible, eating and drinking your way through the better part of 2 months is the norm. During this series of decadent smorgasbords, there is one thing one should remember, and that is to take good care of; your mouth. Yes, all of that yummy goodness has a gateway to your overly-enthusiastic stomach, and that “gateway” needs some extra maintenance this time of year.
To help keep your smile bright and healthy during the busy and party-filled season, here are 11-holiday dental tips to see you (and your teeth) safely through the season.
#1 Be cautious of candy canes– Hard candy is tasty and readily available at the holidays from candy canes to peppermints, but it can crack your teeth if you bite down wrong. It may be better to let candies dissolve to prevent any chipping or other damage – but be sure to brush thoroughly after eating candy of any kind.
#2 Stay clear of soda– Holiday parties are rife with pop, and this sugary substance is never good for your teeth. If you want something bubbly, try fizzy water rather than soda. If you must drink soda, use a straw to keep most of the acid off your teeth.
#3 Watch the wine– If you like a nice red, be mindful of how this can stain your teeth. White wine is less of a risk to your white smile. If you do drink red, do so with food to mitigate how much of it gets on your teeth. Be sure to brush thoroughly if you do indulge in reds.
#4 Take more turkey– One-holiday food that’s great for your chompers is the turkey. It’s an excellent source of phosphorus and protein – both of which can help your body fight tooth decay and keep your teeth strong and healthy.
#5 Stock your stockings well– Christmas stockings are often chock full of sugary treats that can cause your kids to get cavities. Instead, consider eliminating candy altogether or stick to one sweet item. Also, consider giving them a cool new toothbrush as part of their holiday loot!
#6 Dip into veggies– At holiday events, skip the trays of Christmas cookies and brownies and instead fill your plate with vegetables. Broccoli and carrots are great treats for your teeth because they’re loaded with Vitamin A which strengthens your enamel.
#7 Chomp on cheese– Choose cheese to snack with if you’re drinking alcoholic drinks at parties. The pH balancing effects help neutralize the acid that’s in boozy beverages, and the calcium is great for your tooth health as well.
#8 Carol while you clean – Optimal tooth brushing last about two minutes so if you hum a few verses and choruses of your favorite holiday song while you brush, you’ll likely brush long enough to clean up your teeth and gums (be sure to brush your tongue too).
#9 Don’t use your teeth as a tool – The holidays come with packages to open, tape to apply to presents and loads of other things you may be tempted to break open or cut with your teeth. Don’t do it! Using your teeth as a tool can cause chips and breaks.
#10 Fill up on fruit –Instead of piling on sugary desserts at your holiday meal, turn to fruit instead. If you’re having a big dinner or party, rather than prepping some cakes and pies, try sticking to one sweet dessert and then prep a big fruit plate to satisfy your sweet tooth.
#11 Make the holiday meaningful –We often structure our holiday events around food, but this is good for your teeth or your waistline. To take the focus off of food, set up activities like board and card games, craft projects or holiday movie marathons.
Our entire Superior Dental Health Team hopes you have a safe, happy and healthy Thanksgiving!