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How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy This Holiday Season

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man using an electric toothbrush

The holiday season is right around the corner, and that means quality time spent with family, discounts on gifts for loved ones, and a certain magic in the air. Unfortunately, it also means a greater temptation to consume more sugary foods and beverages. Since all of the major upcoming holidays seem to revolve around food, it can be hard to keep your teeth healthy this time of year. Luckily, a family dentist has a few tips for you to maintain your oral health during the holidays.

Stick to a Routine

The holidays can be busy, but that doesn’t give you an excuse to let your dental hygiene regimen fall by the wayside. Floss once a day, and brush every morning and night for two minutes each. If it helps, set a timer or play your favorite holiday song for two minutes while you clean your pearly whites. Make sure to use a fluoridated toothpaste with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval.

Drink Plenty of Water

This time of year is popular for sugary drinks like pumpkin spice lattes. While consuming these drinks every once in a while won’t do much harm to your teeth, you should drink them in moderation. Keep some water on hand to rinse your mouth out after you drink these beverages. It helps to select tap water instead of bottled water. Tap water is more likely to have fluoride, which gives your teeth an extra boost against cavities.

Avoid Grazing

It can be tempting to lay out a plate of cookies or candy to munch on throughout the day, but don’t do this! Constantly snacking can spell disaster for your teeth. The frequent exposure to sugar gives bacteria in your mouth ample time to attack your teeth and create cavities.

Choose Healthy Snacks

Candy and sweet treats may be in abundance during these last few months of the year, but that doesn’t mean you always have to opt to eat them. Every once in a while, reach for a healthy snack like fruits or raw veggies instead of sweets.

Don’t Forget Your Family Dentist

Although your dentist might not be high on your list of people to spend the holidays with, you should still honor any appointments you may have. In fact, the end of the year is the perfect time to get your pearly whites checked and cleaned. Since any dental insurance benefits that you have don’t roll over into the next year, you might as well use them now before the year is up.

Holiday food choices can wreak havoc on your teeth if you’re not careful. Keep these holiday healthy teeth tips in mind this time of year to keep your pearly whites nice and fresh.

About the Author

Dr. Thaddeus S. Michalski has achieved Diplomate status in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, as well as Fellowship status in the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry and the Misch Implant Institute. These memberships prove that Dr. Michalski has a dedication to constantly improving himself and honing his skills. To learn more holiday healthy teeth tips, schedule an appointment with Dr. Michalski by clicking here or calling (860) 563-4544..