Keeping your teeth happy and healthy this festive season
Christmas is a magical time. It’s filled with cosy evenings by the fire and quality time with loved ones. But, when celebrating, it’s easy to get carried away with indulgent food and drinks – and perhaps a few bad habits that can take a toll on your smile.
With the festive spirit comes the delicious treats we usually reserve for special occasions. It’s important to remember that a healthy smile is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves. After all, it’s one of the first things others notice about you, and it’s worth protecting.
Follow our advice on keeping your smile healthy and bright this Christmas.
Top Tips for Protecting Your Smile this Christmas
Keep up with routine appointments
While Christmas can be a busy time, don’t let it be an excuse to skip or delay your routine dental check-up.
Regular dental appointments every six months allow us to detect early signs of decay and other issues that could worsen over time if left untreated. If you’re due for a visit, book it now to start the festivities knowing that you have a healthy smile. It’s also a great time for a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, ensuring your teeth feel fresh and healthy.
Remember – teeth are not tools!
When unwrapping presents and opening gifts, it can be tempting to use your teeth as tools – especially when swept up in a moment of excitement. Using your teeth to break off gift tags or rip into wrapping paper is a recipe for damage. Doing so puts you at risk for chipping, cracking or even breaking a tooth, which could lead to an emergency appointment – the last thing you want when you’re trying to celebrate. Instead, keep scissors and other tools nearby so you won’t feel tempted to use your teeth.
Be mindful of sugar consumption
Christmas wouldn’t be the same without sugary, chocolatey treats. As much as we might not want to accept it, these sugary foods can be harmful to our smile. When you consume sugary treats, the sugar combines with the bacteria in your mouth to produce acid. This acid attacks your tooth enamel, leading to cavities and decay over time.
There’s no need to cut the treats out altogether but be mindful. Try to limit sugary food to mealtimes rather than snacking throughout the day. Saliva production is higher during meals, helping wash away sugar and protect your teeth. Consider reaching for alternative, healthier holiday snacks when you can, which are less harmful to your teeth.
Limit alcohol consumption
For some, alcohol is a big part of Christmas celebrations, from mulled wine to a bucks fizz. However, alcohol has a drying effect on the mouth, reducing saliva production. Since saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralise acids, a dry mouth can lead to a higher risk of decay and bad breath. Some alcoholic drinks, like red wine, can also stain teeth, leaving your smile looking dull.
Stay hydrated by alternating between alcoholic drinks and water. Drinking water helps rinse away acids and sugars, keeping your mouth moist and minimising potential harm. Also, be mindful of the sugary mixers in cocktails – the combination of sugar and alcohol can be especially damaging.
Prioritise your oral health – even on busy days
With the Christmas excitement, it’s easy to slip out of routine. But maintaining good brushing and flossing habits should be non-negotiable, especially during a season when you’re more likely to indulge in sugary treats.
Make sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and don’t forget to floss daily. If you’re away visiting family, pack a small oral hygiene kit, including travel-sized toothpaste, a toothbrush and floss, so you can stay on top of your routine no matter where you are.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated helps maintain your oral health in several ways. Water rinses away food particles, reduces dry mouth and keeps your gums hydrated. Alcoholic drinks and sugary cocktails are popular during the festive season and while they’re enjoyable, they can also be dehydrating. When you’re sipping on Bucks fizz, make sure to alternate with water to stay hydrated and protect your smile.
Remain proactive with your dental health this Christmas
The best way to protect your smile this Christmas – and for life! – is to stay proactive about your oral health. We recommend booking routine appointments every six months to help maintain healthy, strong teeth and gums. These appointments allow us to thoroughly examine your mouth and spot potential issues early. Our hygienists can also provide professional cleanings that go beyond what daily brushing and flossing can achieve.
As you celebrate the festive season, keep the above tips in mind – and if you’re due for a visit, don’t wait to book your next appointment. Call our friendly team on 01995 605707. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, happy smile this Christmas and all year long!
