From cookies to candy canes, the holiday season is full of delicious sweet treats. And, if one isn't careful, these sweet foods can lead to tooth decay and extra trips to the dentist. Children's teeth are especially prone to decay as the protective enamel layer of their teeth is softer and more sensitive. Below are a few tips to protect your child's teeth from holiday snacks.

How to Safeguard Your Child's Teeth Around the Holidays

1. Impose a Limit

There's no reason your child can't indulge over the holidays, but there should be a limit to the number of sweets they are allowed to eat. Set boundaries early in the season by telling them how many sweets they are permitted to eat each day; for example, you may suggest two cookies per-day. This will set expectations and allow them to plan accordingly.

2. Be Strict About Brushing & Flossing

The holidays can be a hectic time, but be sure to make your child's brushing and flossing routine activities. Have them brush and floss when they wake up and when they go to bed. After their daily allotment of sweets, encourage them to brush again or, at the very least, to rinse thoroughly with mouthwash or a fluoride rinse.

3. Make Healthier Choices

When cooking for the holidays, use healthier ingredients. Using stevia in place of sugar, for instance, can provide a sweet taste without the risk of tooth decay; be certain that you use stevia-specific recipes since stevia is 40 times stronger than sugar. Also, when packing your child's school lunches, balance out the holiday sweets with healthier options; try carrot and celery sticks instead of chips, and apples instead of sugary desserts.

4. Visit a Dentist

If your child gets a toothache or experiences sensitivity to hot or cold foods, take them to a dentist. These are two common signs of a cavity. Also, be aware of subtler symptoms, such as avoiding chewing on one side of the mouth or red or swollen gums.

By following the above tips, you'll be taking proactive steps to protect your child's teeth during the holiday season. However, if you do need a dentist, contact the team at Dansville Family Dental Care. Since 2001, they have been providing residents of Livingston County, NY, with dental care services, including exams, fillings, crowns, veneers, and braces; they are here for you and your family. Call (585) 335-6170 or visit them online to schedule an appointment with a trusted dentist.