by Diana Do, RDH
Edited by Dr. Levy Do, DDS

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, we are starting to enter the season that is filled with many festivities. From Halloween, which just passed not too long ago, to the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays, it is easy to overlook our dental health amidst the holiday cheer. Plus, there are so many delicious foods, desserts, and sweet treats right in front of us, waiting to be devoured. So how do we navigate this season while trying to keep cavities away? Here are some essential tips to help preserve your smile through the upcoming celebrations!

1. “Sugar, Spice, and Everything Nice” - but Balance it Out with Some Wise Food Choices!

Although the season is filled with such delightful sweet drinks and treats, make sure that you are eating them in moderation. There are bacteria in your mouth that feed off the sugars that you consume. They then produce acids, which eat away at your teeth, therefore giving you a cavity. You do not want to be in a position where you are not able to enjoy your meals this holiday season! That’s why we are here to remind you to limit your sugary sweets and beverages like candy canes, eggnog, and cookies. Also try to limit starchy or sticky foods, like toffee, apple pies, chips, and bread. These types of food can sit in the pits and grooves of your teeth, which contributes to cavities when not cleaned off. If you are eating or drinking these types of foods, read tip #3 and #4 to reduce food build up. 

2. “I Got Beans, Greens, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Lambs . . .” - Create a Balanced Plate

Remember to balance your plate with healthy, nutritious food. Eat your greens like spinach, kale, and broccoli because they have healthy vitamins and minerals that help protect your teeth. Milk, cheese and yogurt also help strengthen your teeth due to their richness in calcium. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery can help clean your teeth naturally, because when chewing, it helps produce more saliva to help wash away your food. Make sure you grab some turkey or ribs on your plate, too because they have protein, which helps repair the tissue (cheeks and gums) in your mouth. Have a colorful variety on your plate!

3. Stay ‘Frosty’ with Hydration - Water is the Ultimate Winter Refreshment

Festive drinks like hot cocoa, eggnog, pumpkin spice lattes, and apple cider might sound good, but they are actually loaded with tons of sugar. The best drink to have will always be water. Water is your best friend in helping rinse away food particles, sugar, and bacteria, reducing the risk of plaque build up. Drinking water also promotes saliva production, which is crucial for neutralizing acids and harmful bacteria in your mouth. 

However if you are indulging, try using a straw to reduce contact with your teeth, and to rinse with water afterwards.

4. Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Brushing and Flossing All the Way! 

Remember to practice good oral hygiene. Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining oral health. Remember to brush 2x a day for at least 2 minutes each time and at least 1x a day remember to “floss like a boss”, as Dr. Do always says! Using toothpastes that contains fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite (if you prefer no fluoride) in it to strengthen your tooth enamel. Technique is key as well. Here are two very good videos that show you how to properly brush and floss:

How to brush: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leVF5RYj42Y&t=57s

How to floss: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noExCv6n2oc

Have an electric toothbrush? Here are some videos on how to brush with an electric toothbrush. Remember to let the toothbrush do the work for you!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zu7hkYlQ1E

5. Don’t Let Your Teeth “Sneak Away” Like the Grinch - Book Your Appointment!

Although the holiday season can get busy, don’t forget to schedule your checkup. Regular dental visits ensure any potential issues are caught early, giving your teeth the best care possible. Early detection is key in preventing bigger problems like a cavity, root-canal or even an extraction. We want to ensure that you can keep your smile bright during this most wonderful time of the year.

Also this is a reminder to also “use it before you lose it”. Dental insurance benefits often expire at the end of the year - meaning unused benefits are lost. We want to make sure you are maximizing your coverage, so make sure you call us to schedule an appointment before it is too late!

Hope this helps you and your family this holiday season with keeping the cavities away. We want to make sure that you are prepared to enjoy a time of celebration and connection with your loved ones, without having a toothache bothering you this holiday season.