The holiday season is a few weeks away, and many people are preparing for festive get-togethers, gift-giving, and celebrations. During all this hustle and bustle, though, you must follow some general dentistry tips. This will ensure you don’t sustain any unwanted damage or put your oral health at risk. For the best results, utilize the guide below. 

3 Tips for Good Holiday Oral Health Care

1. Create a Travel Pack

If you plan on traveling for the holidays, be it by plane, car, or train, you must keep up with your general dentistry routine. Create a travel pack filled with a travel-sized package of toothpaste, floss or floss picks, a new toothbrush, and a mini bottle of mouthwash. If you use a retainer and orthodontic equipment, you should also pack this, keeping them in secure cases.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

One of the hallmarks of any festive celebration is delicious treats and sweets. However, you must enjoy these items in moderation during the holiday season. Limit your consumption of donuts, cakes, and sugary desserts, as these will contribute to bacteria that lead to tooth decay. Also, avoid eating hard candies, as these may crack or get stuck in your teeth.

General dentistry rules also suggest keeping a pack of sugar-free gum nearby after meals, as chewing this encourages saliva production, which will create a natural rinse that keeps bacteria at bay.

3. Don’t Use Your Teeth to Rip Open Gifts

When the time to open presents, you might be eager to rip into the packaging to see what your gift is. However, you must never use your teeth as a tool. Doing so could cause chips, which can lead to issues ranging from slight discomfort to a severe fracture. Opening presents like this can also damage the soft tissues in your mouth, such as your tongue, gums, or cheeks. 

If you’re seeking more general dentistry tips this holiday season, turn to Wheeler Family Dental in Chesterfield, MO. The team at this locally owned and operated practice is proud to offer patients throughout St. Louis County with top-quality oral health services. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (314) 576-3737 to schedule an appointment.