The end of the year brings with it the opportunity to visit with family, celebrate with loved ones, and share in the joy which surrounds the holiday season. As you anticipate the holidays, you may be making a number of preparations including decorating your home, shopping for presents, and baking your family’s favorite treats. One bit of self-care you should not overlook during this season is your oral health. As the dentists from Oahu Dental Care in Hawaii note, many people allow their dental health to take a back seat during the holiday season. Unfortunately, doing so can have repercussions which last the entire year.

For a list of dentist-approved tips to keep your teeth healthy this season, continue reading below.

3 Dental Health Tips for This Holiday Season

1. Schedule an Appointment Before the Holidays

If possible, try to schedule a visit with your dentist in the weeks prior to the holidays. In addition to ensuring that you get an appointment before your dentist goes on vacation, a check-up allows you to address any oral health issues before the end of the year. As an added bonus, your teeth will be extra clean and sparkly in all of your holiday pictures.

2. Brush & Floss Each Day

Brushing twice daily and flossing once a day are important oral health tips throughout the year, however, they are essential during the holiday season. During this time of year, people tend to eat more sweets, desserts, and candy than any other season, which can increase the risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay. Remaining mindful of your oral hygiene during this time helps you to cleanse your teeth of potentially harmful bacteria and sugars, protecting your oral health.

3. Be Mindful of Your Dental Gear

The holiday season is full of delicious treats including candy canes, holiday bark, and roasted nuts. While tasty, these desserts can spell trouble if you wear braces, porcelain veneers, and other cosmetic dentistry devices. Protect your smile by eating foods such as these sparingly and with caution.

For more holiday dental tips or to schedule an appointment with a dentist, contact Oahu Dental Care. With locations in Pearl City and Honolulu, HI, this dental practice specializes in caring for all of your oral health needs. For more information about their services, visit their website. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 732-2821 for their Honolulu office and (808) 456-5005 for service in Pearl City. Happy holidays!