The holidays may be a time to relax and enjoy family, friends, and festivities, but even when you’re indulging in the spirit of the season, it’s important to not get too relaxed about your oral hygiene. If you want to avoid entering the New Year with dental health problems like cavities and gum disease, here are a few important tips to keep in mind as you celebrate. 

5 Ways to Protect Your Smile This Holiday Season

1. Shield Against Staining

Many favorite holiday foods and drinks contain acids and dark pigments that contribute to tooth discoloration, including coffee, red wine, and hot chocolate. If you want to avoid stained teeth, choose water instead or use a straw to minimize contact between your teeth and the liquids.

2. Stick to Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Whether you’re on vacation or staying up late, it’s essential to maintain a solid oral hygiene routine to keep your teeth and gums clean. Make sure to brush at least twice a day for two minutes at a time, as well as floss once a day to remove cavity-causing plaque and food debris. Pack a collapsible toothbrush if you’re traveling to visit family so you can brush on the go.

3. Stay Smart About Sweets

From cookies and candy-filled stockings, there’s no shortage of sugary sweets during the holidays. To minimize the risk of cavities, opt for healthier, lower-sugar treats, like roasted nuts or fibrous fruit like apples. If you do eat sugar, minimize the damage by consuming healthier tooth-friendly foods at the same time, brushing after, or drinking water.

4. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

It’s tempting to use your teeth as tools to tear into gift packaging or to break open nuts. However, these activities can exert too much pressure on your teeth and cause chips and cracks.

5. Stay Hydrated  

Although dehydration is a health risk typically associated with the summertime, it’s a common problem during the wintertime as well. When you’re dehydrated, you’re more likely to experience dry mouth, a condition that stimulates bacterial activity and increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. To protect your mouth, be sure to drink plenty of water each day, especially if you’re thirsty. Drinking from the tap will also provide you with fluoride, a mineral that strengthens teeth.

If you experience any dental health concerns this winter season, Richmond Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry will help protect your smile. Serving the Richmond Hill, GA, area since 1982, this family dentist is equipped to provide both preventive and restorative treatments to address a wide range of oral health problems from cavities, gum disease, root canals, and stained teeth. To learn more about the patient-centric care this clinic provides, visit their website. For appointments, call (912) 756-3880.