The holidays are a busy time for any family as schedules fill up with guests and parties. With so many social gatherings on the horizon, it’s natural to want to make a lasting impression, starting with a dazzling smile. Whether you’re planning your holiday card photo shoot or looking for ways to inspire all of your loved ones to take oral health seriously, here are a few dentist-approved recommendations to keep your teeth bright and healthy. 

Dental Tips for the Holidays

1. Brush & Floss as a Family

To maximize family time and ensure children are taking the time to brush and floss properly every morning and night, consider embracing this practice as a fun group activity. Let your little ones choose a festive holiday song to listen to while you complete your oral health routines together. 

2. Watch Sugar Consumption

The holidays are synonymous with sweet treats and decadent desserts. While it’s okay to indulge every once in a while, it’s important to remember that sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay and cavities. To avoid unnecessary trips to the dentist for fillings or root canals, keep your sugar intake to a minimum year-round. If you and your family do decide to indulge in a holiday favorite, make a brushing and flossing session part of the bargain so unwanted mouth bacteria doesn’t have time to linger and wear down enamel. 

3. Schedule Teeth Cleanings With Your Dentist

The end of the year is a perfect reminder that it’s time to see your dentist. Before you snap photos for your Christmas card or welcome out-of-town visitors, plan a family trip to the dentist where you all undergo teeth cleanings to remove plaque buildup and confirm overall oral health. Adults and children should have teeth cleaning sessions every six months, so this way you’re covered until spring.

4. Consider Professional Teeth Whitening

Grownups who enjoy black coffee, red wine, and foods like berries may have surface stains that are difficult to remove by brushing. If your smile has lost its luster, consider visiting your dentist for a teeth whitening treatment. In one session, you can remove surface stains and lighten your teeth multiple shades. This way, you’ll walk into your company’s holiday party feeling confident. 

Springville Family Dental Center has been helping families across St. Clair County, AL, maintain beautiful, healthy smiles since 1989. If you’re looking for an experienced dentist that prioritizes a friendly bedside manner so patients of all ages are at ease, call today at (205) 467-6147 to schedule your first appointment. For more information on the procedures this dental office specializes in and to review the credentials of their lead dentist, Dr. Ronderos, DMD, visit this practice online.