The holiday season is here. There are so many places to go and people to see. In the midst of all the food, fun, and excitement, don’t forget about your teeth. Now, I don’t expect you to ignore your favorite foods. But consider adding these helpful holiday dental tips to your festivities.
8 Helpful Holiday Dental Tips
- Eat fruits and vegetables. Many fruits and vegetables contain antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C. Vitamin C protects gums and other tissues from cellular damage and bacterial infection. Salad greens contain folic acid, a vitamin B family member. Folic acid promotes a healthy mouth and supports cell growth in your body.
- Stay hydrated. Water cleans your mouth by washing out food, sugars, and bacteria. Water also dilutes the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. Drinking water freshens your breath and aids in digestion.
- Don’t use your teeth as a tool. Never use your teeth to open presents, bottles, or snack bags. Your teeth weren’t designed for these purposes. Using your teeth as a tool weakens the enamel and edges of your teeth. This causes cracked or broken teeth.
- Chew cinnamon gum. Cinnamaldehyde is an essential oil that gives cinnamon gum its kick. This essential oil stimulates saliva production and reduces bacteria formation between brushes. Also, cinnamon gum freshens your breath.
- Make memories. Instead of structuring your holiday activities around food, focus on fun. Play cards or board games and other fun activities. Make a holiday-themed craft project. Watch your favorite movies. Enjoy your family and make memories.
- No hard candies. Candy canes and other hard candies can crack your teeth when you bite into them. If you eat hard candies, let them dissolve in your mouth. This prevents chipping your tooth or doing any other damage to your teeth.
- Say cheese please. Cheese is a good snack to pair with alcoholic drinks at parties. The cheese neutralizes the acid in the alcohol. Also, the calcium is great for strengthening your teeth and bones. Remember to drink in moderation.
- Pass the turkey. More turkey, please. Turkey is a great source of phosphorus and protein. Phosphorus and protein help your body fight tooth decay. When phosphorus mixes with calcium and vitamin D, it creates strong teeth and bones.
This holiday season, enjoy your time with family and friends. Eat your favorite foods in moderation. Don’t forget about your teeth. Practice good oral hygiene. If it’s been more than six months since your last visit, call my office to make an appointment.
Best,
Dr. Sadikoff
