Let Your Teeth Shine This Holiday Season

The holidays are officially upon us, and while this season is riddled with sweets and treats, you can still keep your smile bright and cavity-free. Check out these four tips, originally offered up from WebMD, on how to protect your teeth this holiday season.

Avoid Excessive Sweets

Candy canes, hot chocolate, holiday cookies, pastries, and it just doesn’t stop. Overdoing all of the sweets can destroy your teeth (and your waistline, for that matter). No one is expecting you to never indulge, but having the control to not consume in excess can go a long way for your oral and overall health. And of course, brushing your teeth shortly after eating sweets is always recommended.

Snack Smart

Nuts are a very common snack offered around the holidays. And for some reason, nuts still in the shell are available readily. Don’t forget to grab your nutcracker (they are actually made for cracking nuts, not just for decoration), and never, NEVER use your teeth to pry out the good stuff. Your teeth are strong, but their not unbreakable.

Keep a Routine

The holiday season is chalked full of parties, parades, choir concerts, and an assortment of other social obligations. With so much going on, it’s easy to lose sight of your diligent schedule. You may forget to take the trash out one night, or skip the dog walk, but try your best to maintain your oral hygiene routine. Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once. If you’re going to be on-the-go, stash a toothbrush and mini toothpaste in your purse or briefcase and be sure to “freshen up” after meals. Chewing sugarless gum is also a good option.

Honor Appointments

If your 6-month check-up falls during the holiday season, be sure to get there. I’m sure your schedule is jam-packed. Everyone’s is. But this is an appointment worth keeping. Plus, if you have any unused dental benefits, they will likely expire at the end of the year. Instead of throwing that money away, take advantage of it and go see your dentist.

The holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate life and love and all things happy. Enjoy yourself, your friends, and of course, your family. Just keep it in check, and don’t forget to brush and floss while you do it. Happy holidays!