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Remember Your Dental Hygiene Routine
While the holiday season is one of the most wonderful times of the year, it’s relatively short. This means that families try to fit in as much festive cheer as they can — and that regular routines, such as dental hygiene, can go to the wayside.
However, dental pain during the holidays isn’t so jolly. Make sure even if you and your little ones are jingling all the way, that you also remember to brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash to keep your smile shining bright.
Be Mindful of Your Snacking
Our teeth have to work extra hard during the holidays so that we can enjoy all of the festive snacks we’d like. However, some snacks such as candy canes, gumdrops, and other hard or sticky foods can damage our teeth.
No one wants to go into the new year with a mouthful of cavities. If you do decide to indulge in these sweets, make sure to brush your teeth afterward and try not to chew too hard to prevent any cracks or chips in your teeth.
Stay Hydrated
Many of our favorite treats during the holidays contain a high sugar level, which creates acids and can weaken the enamel of your teeth. Keeping enough water handy will not only help flush excess food particles off your teeth, but it can also keep the rest of your body healthy. Water with fluoride is a plus as it not only helps to remove food but helps strengthen your enamel!
During the winter, our bodies typically become dehydrated. This is because we usually feel about 40 percent less thirsty, even though the body's need for water is unchanged throughout the year. Having a large, reusable water bottle (or a water tracker) to make sure that you're drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily will help keep your body healthy — including your smile.
Don’t Take the Holiday Stress Out on Your Teeth
From finishing your shopping to making sure your family meal is prepped — there’s always a lot to do during the season of giving. As a result, this added stress can lead to habits such as nail-biting. Not only is this habit bad for your nails, but it’s also bad for your teeth. If you’re feeling stressed, try to go out for a walk or decompress in another way without taking it out on your nails.
Use Appropriate Tools to Open Gifts and Packaging
Let’s face it: there’s always one gift you’re excited to receive during the holidays. But, so excited that you use your teeth to rip the wrapping paper?
Leave the gift opening to the professional tools such as scissors to avoid any damage to your smile. This goes for opening bottles as well — if you’re not snacking, your teeth are not the right tool for the job.
If you do experience a dental emergency during the holidays, our team at Richardson Dentistry is here to help!
Visit Your Dentist for Your Regular Check-Ups
While you may be busy with holiday festivities, it’s important to make sure that you’re getting the dental care you need. If it’s time for you to have your regular dental exam during the holidays, don’t skip the appointment or put it off. Having your teeth cleaned now won’t just ensure that your smile is healthy, but it’ll also make it extra bright for all those family photos!
Family Dentistry in Richardson
At Richardson Dentistry, we believe everyone deserves the highest quality dental care. That’s why we are focused on ensuring the comfort, health, and satisfaction of all our patients. We strive to offer the best dental services in Richardson, from preventative care and family dentistry to sleep apnea treatment, cosmetic dentistry, and more. If you’re in need of a dental exam this holiday season, we’re here for you.
Contact us today at (972) 218-0078 to book your appointment, or visit us online.
