5 Tips for Maintaining Oral Health Over the Holidays in East Nashville, TN

How to Protect Your Teeth & Improve Oral Hygiene During the Holiday Season

Tis the season for family, celebrations, extravagant meals, and delectable sweet treats you probably wouldn't enjoy in your everyday diet. While enjoying the season's merriment, don't forget about your teeth and oral health. According to a DentaVox Survey, 48% of respondents found Christmas the worst holiday for oral health—outranking even Halloween. 

Whether it's the candy that feeds bacteria-causing cavities, traveling that throws off your schedule, or reduced dental clinic hours, the holiday season can take a toll on your oral health. But it doesn't have to. Smilodon Dental has outlined a few simple tips to stay on top of your oral healthcare.

1. Choose Teeth-Healthy Foods for the Holidays

Holiday gatherings often include sugary and sticky treats that aren't the best for your teeth. Instead of indulging too much in sugar-laden cookies and candies, try to include foods that help your teeth stay healthy. 

Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery can be natural toothbrushes. These fruits and vegetables can scrub your teeth and promote saliva production. Cheese and other dairy products are excellent choices, too, as they contain calcium and casein that strengthen tooth enamel.

Balancing indulgent treats with teeth-friendly options will help reduce the negative impact on your oral health, giving you the best of both worlds—delicious holiday treats and a healthy smile.

2. Stick to Your Daily Oral Care Routine

It's easy to get off schedule during the holidays, but consistency is vital in oral hygiene. Whether celebrating at home or traveling to see family and friends, bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, and prioritize your daily oral care routine.

Brush twice daily for two minutes, and don't forget to floss at least once daily. The holidays can be hectic, but dedicating just a few minutes to your oral health routine can make all the difference in keeping your smile bright and avoiding cavities.

3. Stay Hydrated to Protect Your Teeth

Staying hydrated is crucial for your overall health, but it also plays a vital role in maintaining oral health. Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and sugar lingering after meals and holiday treats. Water also helps stimulate saliva production, a natural defense against harmful bacteria and tooth decay.

Whenever you enjoy a holiday beverage, such as a sugary punch or a glass of wine, drink water afterward to minimize the risk of stains and cavities. Making water your go-to beverage can help protect your teeth and keep your mouth healthy during the festivities.

4. Don't Use Your Teeth as Tools

The holidays often come with lots of gift wrapping, bottles to open, and packaging to tear into—but resist the urge to use your teeth as tools. Using your teeth to open bottles, tear tape, or break through stubborn packaging can lead to cracked or chipped teeth, which can be painful and costly.

Instead, use the right tools— like scissors or a bottle opener. Protecting your teeth from unnecessary damage during the holidays will help ensure you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.

5. Chew Cinnamon Gum Instead of Sugary Treats

If you need something to satisfy your sweet tooth, choose sugar-free gum—specifically cinnamon-flavored gum. Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help stimulate saliva flow, which washes away food particles and neutralizes acids. Cinnamon gum contains natural compounds that may have antibacterial properties, helping reduce the bacteria in your mouth that can cause cavities.

Chewing gum is a great way to freshen your breath and protect your teeth when you don't have access to a toothbrush, especially during long holiday events or travels.

Schedule Your Post-Holiday Checkup & Cleaning Now at Smilodon Dental

The holidays are a busy time, but it's essential to prioritize your oral health. Scheduling a post-holiday checkup and cleaning at Smilodon Dental is a great way to ensure your teeth stay healthy after the festivities. We're here to help keep your smile in top shape all year round. Contact us today to book your appointment and start the new year with a bright, healthy smile!