When the holidays arrive, it is easy to get carried away with sweets and snacks. You may find yourself sampling cookies, candies, and festive desserts more often than usual which isn’t a good thing for teeth.
While enjoying your favorite treats is part of the season, it is important to keep sweets to a minimum over the holidays so your smile stays healthy. Dr. Cameron Stringham and Dr. Rachel Liu want you to enjoy the celebrations without creating problems for your teeth and gums.
Good Treats and Not-So-Good Ones for Teeth
You probably already know that sugar feeds the bacteria that lead to cavities, but some treats are much easier on your mouth than others. Dark chocolate, for example, melts quickly and does not stick to your teeth. Nuts, cheese plates, and crunchy vegetables are also safer choices because they stimulate saliva, which naturally helps clean your mouth.
On the other hand, sticky candies, toffees, and chewy caramels cling to tooth surfaces and remain there long after you finish eating them. Hard candies sit in your mouth for several minutes at a time, bathing your teeth in sugar the entire time. Even dried fruit, which seems like a healthier option, can be troublesome because it sticks in the grooves of your molars. When you choose your holiday snacks, it helps to think about how long the food remains on your teeth and how difficult it is to remove.
How to Protect Your Teeth and Gums
Holiday gatherings often make it tough to follow your usual routine, but you can still take simple steps to protect your smile. Drinking water during parties washes away food particles and helps neutralize acids created by bacteria. Eating sugary foods with meals instead of as frequent snacks reduces the number of times your teeth are exposed throughout the day.
It also helps to carry sugar-free gum with you. Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which supports your natural defenses. Rinsing your mouth with water right after enjoying sweets can make a noticeable difference as well. If you know a celebration will offer lots of tempting treats, try eating a healthy snack beforehand so you are less likely to overindulge.
Professional Support During the Holidays
When you visit your Edmonton dentist’s office, you get more than a routine cleaning. You receive personalized care and advice tailored to your needs. Dr. Cameron Stringham and Dr. Rachel Liu understand how busy this time of year can be, and they can guide you on the best ways to enjoy the holidays without harming your oral health.
Stringham Dentistry encourages you to stay mindful of your choices and to schedule regular checkups. With a little planning, you can savor the season, enjoy good and bad treats for teeth and gums in moderation, and keep your smile healthy all year long.
