How Can You Protect Your Teeth While Enjoying the Holidays?

There is so much going on during the holidays – seeing relatives for the first time in a while, eating great food when everyone chips in with a dish they made, watching the big game on TV – it can easily distract you from taking care of your teeth.

Fortunately, there are some not-too-difficult things you can do to make it to the New Year with your oral health intact. Check out these tips for how to have a good time enjoying holiday foods while making smart choices for your teeth along the way.

Be Careful When Eating Hard Foods

Nuts are a prime example during the holidays or otherwise. Especially with nuts in the shell, don’t crack them with your teeth. Many shells can fracture teeth and you could cut your gums. Fresh fruit is a better option as a mouth-healthy snack, but especially if it’s an acidic citrus fruit be sure to brush afterward.

Bring On a Second Helping of Turkey and Vegetables

While many holiday foods are not good for your oral health, you can enjoy more of the items that are. Vegetables like carrots and broccoli have a lot of vitamin A to strengthen your enamel. Also, don’t worry about the myth that turkey makes you sleepy. Focus on the fact that it’s loaded with protein and phosphorus, both of which work to keep your teeth healthy.

Drink Water, Water, and More Water

You hear a lot about the importance of staying hydrated because it helps your body in so many ways. That applies to your mouth, as well. The soda and wine at holiday parties have acid to weaken your enamel, plus they add staining potential. If you do have either one of those, brush your teeth afterward or at least swish some water in your mouth to remove lingering particles.

Don’t Bite Down on That Peppermint

Peppermints, candy canes, you get the idea. The holiday season has no shortage of hard, sugary candies that threaten your teeth in multiple ways. If you do have some hard candy, definitely don’t try to chew it and brush your teeth afterward. Dark chocolate is the most tooth-friendly candy unless you go the sugarless route.

Keep Your Toothcare Tools Nearby

Regular use of your toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash is crucial, especially if you are eating a few more of those sweets than you do during the rest of the year. If you need to save space, you can get a dental travel kit at your local pharmacy.

You know you’re going to be busy with all sorts of activities when the holiday season rolls around. By staying consistent with your oral hygiene regimen, you’ll take great care of your teeth and not even have to think much about it. When the holiday fun is over, your dentist will be there for a dental cleaning and exam to make sure you don’t take any sugary stowaways into next year.

About the Practice

At Peery & Woolwine Family Dentistry, our three-dentist team consists of dynamic father-son duo Dr. James Peery Jr. and Dr. James Peery III, as well as Dr. Samuel Woolwine. Dentists are people, too; they know how much you have going on during the holidays, but it is still possible to take great care of your teeth. When the pumpkin pie and presents have passed by, our toothcare trio will be ready to help with a dental exam and cleaning. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (434) 847-5331.