5 Tips for Keeping Your Smile Healthy During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here at last, and with it comes a higher risk of getting cavities thanks to the abundance of sugary seasonal treats. While some classic holiday foods like candy canes might be good for your soul, your teeth aren’t the best fans. Fortunately, your dentist in Fresno has five tips to help you enjoy the holiday season without damaging your smile.

1. Stick to Your Routine

This is the simplest step in maintaining good oral health, but it’s often the easiest one to forget. Spending the holidays away from home with friends and family can make it all too easy to drift out of your dental hygiene routine. If you have trouble remembering to brush and floss when your routine is disrupted, try setting reminders on your phone.

2. Watch What You Eat

This time of year just wouldn’t be the same without candy canes, cookies, and pies. However, be sure to drink water after eating these holiday staples in order to rinse cavity-causing bacteria off of your teeth.

3. Get Plenty of Protein

Many holiday dinners involve mashed potatoes, stuffing, and multiple types of bread. While these holiday foods might taste great, the sticky starches they contain stick to your teeth, eventually turning into sugar. Bacteria in your mouth feed on that sugar, which is what creates cavities. Your teeth will thank you if you grab a second slice of turkey or ham instead of filling up on another helping of mashed potatoes.

4. Take It Easy on the Wine

You’re probably already aware that red wine easily stains teeth, but don’t think white wine is any better for your oral health. Both types of wine are acidic enough to wear down your tooth enamel, leaving you at risk for decay and sensitivity. Sipping water after each glass will not only wash away this acid, but it can prevent dry mouth.

5. Pack a “To-Go” Dental Hygiene Kit

Even if you’re only staying at someone else’s house for one night, it’s vital that you pack a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. That way, you can step away from the festivities for a moment to clean your teeth. Not only will this minimize plaque, but it will keep your breath fresh for family conversations.

Whatever your holiday plans are this year, make sure to keep your oral health in mind. That way, you can start the new year off right with a bright, healthy smile!

About the Author

As a family dentist in Fresno, Dr. Byron Reintjes has been helping patients maintain beautiful smiles since 1991. He has undergone training in many areas of dentistry, such as Invisalign orthodontics, but he always emphasizes a preventive approach. Learn more about keeping your smile healthy during the holidays by visiting his website or calling (559) 438-6684.