By now you are familiar with good oral health care: regular teeth cleanings and exams in addition to brushing and flossing. But the sugary treats and festive celebrations of holiday time can put extra stress on your teeth. Follow the tips below to keep your teeth and mouth healthy during the holiday season.

Tips for Holiday Oral Hygiene

1. Stay Hydrated

It’s tempting to drink more alcohol, sugary beverages such as cocoa or hot apple cider, and coffee and tea during the holidays. To prevent dry mouth and the accompanying bad breath and bacteria growth, stick to a good hydration routine and drink water along with alcoholic beverages or after high sugar snacks.

2. Moderate Sugar

Sugar promotes tooth decay by giving unfriendly bacteria the food they need to grow and attack gums and teeth. Allow moderate indulgence, avoid sticky or hard candies, and always brush after eating sweet treats.

3. Pair Cheese & White Wine (or Champagne)

Don’t undo the hygienist’s work by drinking red wine. Rather, choose bubbly or white wine that won’t stain teeth. Pairing wine with cheese also helps to mitigate the acidic nature of alcohol. Cheese is an alkaline food that neutralizes the acids in wine that contribute to tooth decay.

4. Bring a Travel Toothbrush Kit to Work

Office parties with sugary treats will tempt you more than once during the holidays. Be prepared with a travel-size oral care kit to keep teeth and gums clean and breath fresh.

5. Schedule Annual Teeth Cleanings & Exams

To help undo the damage that celebratory feasting may cause, schedule your annual teeth cleaning and dental exam for January after the end-of-year parties settle down. It’s an effective way to start the new year committed to good oral hygiene.

Waterford Dental Health in New London County, CT, offers complete dental care services including teeth cleanings, whitening, and regular exams. They treat periodontal disease and offer sedation dentistry and a full range of restorative and cosmetic services. Call (860) 447-2235 to make an appointment or go to the website to tour the office, meet the team, and learn more about available procedures.