‘Tis the season for family gatherings, gift giving, delicious meals, sweet treats and…
Tooth decay?
Gum disease?
The last thing you need during the most wonderful time of the year is an emergency visit to the dentist! In fact, a survey from DentalVox reports that 36% of people believe the holidays have a negative effect on oral hygiene and 25% skip or neglect their usual hygiene routines during the holidays.
To ensure your smile stays merry and bright so you can celebrate the season, here are a few simple tips you should follow:
- Get a new toothbrush.
When was the last time you bought yourself a toothbrush? If it’s been a while, now’s the perfect time to get a new brush that’s fresh and effective. Consider it an early present from you, to you!
- Maintain your routine.
No matter how tired you are from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, don’t neglect your oral hygiene! Be sure to brush at least twice a day to remove food debris and keep bacteria from growing on your teeth. Brush after every meal if you can!
- Don’t use your teeth as tools.
Using your mouth to open bottles, crack nuts and rip off tags can cause your teeth to chip, crack or even break. Stick to scissors, bottle openers, nutcrackers and other appropriate tools to avoid a painful trip to the dentist!
- Put a limit on sugary and alcoholic beverages.
The holiday season is a time for indulgence, but don’t overdo it! The combination of sugary content and high acidity in many popular drinks can hurt your teeth and gums. Cutting down on the number of drinks you consume will keep your teeth — and liver — at their best.
- Don’t forget healthy foods!
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying your favorite holiday treats! Just be sure to include fruits, vegetables and other nutrient-dense foods in your menu lineup. Crispy fruits and veggies can clean your teeth and massage your gums, and cheese can lessen the plaque on your teeth!
- Schedule a routine cleaning.
If it’s been a while since you last saw your dentist, scheduling an appointment before or after the holiday season is a great way to ensure your oral health is in great shape for 2023!
Are you overdue for a checkup? Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Stante and keep your dental health in check!