Now that you’ve finished off the last of the turkey leftovers, you’re heading directly into the holiday season. And what awaits you if you aren’t careful are compromised teeth and gums. We want to help you avoid that situation. Read on to find out tips for taking care of your pearly whites from now until (and after) the first of the New Year!
How to Protect Your Teeth and Gums
At Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California, we see lots of patients who develop dental problems during the holidays. The good news is that it is possible to prevent these problems by following certain guidelines. This holiday season, follow these simple steps to avoid tooth decay, gingivitis, and bad breath.
Buy a New Toothbrush
- Invest a new toothbrush to remove debris from your mouth after eating. This will help you avoid cavities which could result from sugary treats like Christmas cookies and drinks like hot chocolate. Also, brush your teeth at least twice a day. However, if you can brush more often than that, do so to prevent oral cavity problems.
Carry Dental Floss
- Buy a small travel sized dental floss to carry with you on the holiday circuit. After tasting treats at a party or a holiday luncheon, run to the restroom to floss your teeth to remove the food particles that stick between teeth and along gums.
Watch Alcohol Intake
- Because alcohol is high in sugar, and beverages such as red wine will stain enamel, avoid excessive alcohol consumption. And if you decide to drink an alcoholic beverage, brush your teeth right away before bacteria settle on enamel and cavities result.
BE CAREFUL IF YOU EAT NUTS
- Do you enjoy nibbling on nuts or sweet treats that contain nuts? If so, you run the risk of chipping a tooth. In some cases, the shell could accidentally end up in the mix with treats such as pecan pie, brownies, or fudge. So, enjoy these on a limited basis and be careful as you chew.
Stop smoking tobacco products (or never start!)
- The nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes stains teeth. You will also develop bad breath, which is difficult to eliminate with brushing or flossing. Also, smoking causes inflammation in the soft tissues of your mouth, leading to gum disease.
Resist the urge to chew ice
- While going to holiday parties and dinners, you might drink more soft drinks or iced tea than you would otherwise enjoy. However, don’t chew the ice cubes in your beverages. Cold, hard pieces can damage dental enamel.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.