The holidays are almost here, which means you’ll have access to all of your favorite sweets and treats. Apple pie, peppermint mochas, hot chocolate, freshly baked cookies, and so much more can be found at all of your family and friends’ gatherings. However, along with this uptick in sweets, there is also an increased risk of dental problems like cavities and tooth decay. Thankfully, your dentist in San Antonio has some pro tips on how you can enjoy the holidays while protecting your teeth.
But First, Why Are the Holidays so Bad for Your Smile?
Think back to every holiday season you’ve had. Each family has their own traditions and events, but everyone loves food. It’s probably hard to remember a holiday when delicious, sweet, and indulgent food wasn’t around. While this season is all about treating yourself, you should watch out for certain sweets in particular. When sugar from all of your seasonal favorites come in contact with bacteria in your mouth, it creates acids that eat away at your enamel, causing cavities and decay. That’s why it’s vital to follow these healthy holiday tips:
Avoid Hard and Sticky Candies
Sweets seem to be around every corner during this time of year but avoiding certain items can actually save your teeth. Candies like caramel, toffee, peppermint, and other hard or sticky treats stay in contact with your teeth for longer periods of time, increasing your risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Instead, if you’re going to indulge, reach for some chocolate—a candy that dissolves fast in the mouth.
Drink Lots of Water
Water is a great wingman during the holidays season. Whether it’s after some red wine, or some fudge, a drink and swish of water can help prevent staining, discoloration, and cavities! Keep a bottle on you or just make quick pitstops in the bathroom during a holiday party or family gathering. Plus, most tap water contains fluoride, which is a natural cavity fighting mineral.
Don’t Forget Your Routine
The seasons festivities may often leave you feeling tired and extremely busy, but it’s important to keep up a good oral healthcare routine. Don’t forget to brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each session. Additionally, be sure to floss once a day to remove any pesky holiday snacks that are lingering in between your teeth. You should also schedule a second checkup and cleaning with your dentist if you haven’t already. They will carefully check your smile to prevent and detect any issues before they get worse.
Are you ready for this season’s festivities? Keep these tips in mind to have a happy holiday while maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Scott Grivas isn’t your average dentist. He believes in quality, personalized care, a philosophy he developed during his experience as a registered nurse. Now, as an expert dentist, he offers thorough checkups, cleanings, and so much more to keep his patients healthy during the holidays. For any questions, he can be reached through his website or by phone at (916) 571-0815.