The holidays are the best time of year, right? The time with family, friends, and of course at parties makes this season full of joy and cheer. However, the holidays are also filled with sweets and treats that can damage your teeth. These are especially popular at seasonal get-togethers and parties. Keep reading to learn the best ways to maintain oral health in Carrollton during the holiday party season to keep your smile healthy while enjoying the festivities.
The Snack Tray is Your Ally
Are you surprised that your dentist wants you to hit the snack tray right away at your next Christmas party? That’s because cheese, commonly found on snack trays, can protect your teeth! Cheese leaves a waxy coating that can prevent surface staining from wine or other dark beverages from occurring in the first place.
Additionally, crunchy veggies like celery or baby carrots clean your teeth by increasing your saliva flow, which washes away cavity-causing plaque and bacteria.
Try Sugarless Sweets
Did you know that there are a wide-variety of sugar substitutes that can be used in baked goods and other holiday treats? Try going sugar-free this holiday season to decrease your risk of tooth decay or cavities. Sugar that clings onto your teeth turns into acid, which eats away at your tooth enamel. That’s why you should try snacks with xylitol or other substitutes to avoid sugar altogether.
That being said, getting through the holidays without sugar is almost unavoidable, so just watch out for extra-harmful sugary treats like caramel. Caramel and other sticky candies stay in contact with your teeth for long periods of time, which dramatically increases your chances of getting cavities.
Rinse Regularly
A quick rinse, even with just water, can save your teeth during a holiday party. Water washes away plaque and bacteria and most tap water contains fluoride, which is a natural cavity-fighting mineral. That’s why it’s worth it to slip away periodically throughout your party to the nearest bathroom, where you can give your mouth a quick rinse. This not only prevents damage to your teeth, but it also protects them from surface stains caused by common seasonal libations.
Make an Appointment
Once all of the holiday chaos has settled down, get in to see your dentist in Carrollton for a regular checkup and cleaning. This is the best way to prevent and detect early signs of dental issues like decay, cavities, gum disease, and more.
Are you ready to take on the holiday season? Use these tips to enjoy all the partying without any of the seasonal sweets and treats affecting your pearly white smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya and Dr. Dhrien Ahir are a team of dentists who take pride in providing high-quality care. They believe in patient education, which is why they want you to know some easy ways on how to protect your teeth during this season of sugar. They currently practice at Celebration Family Dental, and they can be contacted through their website or by phone at (469) 892-6647 for any questions.