Dental Tips for a safe and healthy Holiday
Did you know that over a million people fall off ladders every holiday while hanging up lights on the tree or around their home? While we would love a visit from you, falling and knocking out a few teeth while putting up holiday decorations is not a fun way to have an impromptu visit to our dentist’s office. So, in that spirit, here are some ideas and dental tips to have a safe and healthy holiday.
Candy Accidents and Elf Problems
Candy problems: First, go easy on the hard candy or the super sticky caramels. You don’t know how many people accidentally crack a tooth or pull out a dental filling with those types of holiday candies? A lot!
Accidents: Be careful on icy stairs, sidewalks, and driveways, ladders, step stools, and roofs – you get the idea. Falling equals broken things (bones, teeth, etc).
Elf and Tooth Fairy shenanigans: For the little kids in the house – if an Elf on the Shelf appears in your home during December and it happens to run into the tooth fairy, well, trouble can be had. While we can’t do much to help the elf, we may be able to have a word or two with the tooth fairy, if need be.
Now for the normal dental tips
Floss daily: Flossing is very important to make sure food is removed from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. It is best to floss at least once a day. It also helps keep bad breath at bay. Water flossers are also an option, but string floss should still be used.
Brush at least twice a day: Make sure to brush gently in small circular motions after meals to remove food and plaque. If your toothbrush looks smashed after a few weeks of using it, you’re brushing your teeth way too hard and doing damage to your gums. Don’t forget to brush your tongue too!
Use a toothpaste with fluoride: Many toothpastes have fluoride in them to help with cavity protection. Adding fluoride to your toothpaste can help improve the enamel layer of your teeth. You can also use toothpaste for sensitive teeth and gums if you are having that issue as well.
Brush your teeth with the best toothbrush: Your toothbrush should have soft bristles with a small to medium-sized head to help you protect your gums from damage when brushing.
Mouthwash: Use a mouthwash that can help you limit plaque buildup and gum disease. But don’t use mouthwash right after brushing your teeth or it will take away the effects of your toothpaste.
Drink lots of water: Staying hydrated throughout the day helps keep your body healthy, helps with your oral microbiome and gut microbiome, and helps wash food particles and acidic drinks down.
Visit your dentist and hygienist at least once a year, preferably twice a year: We love to see our patients! Regular dental check-ups will help your dentist detect any possible problems you may have brewing in your mouth. This is a great time to bring up any questions or concerns you may have about your oral health with your dentist or hygienist.
Last but not least, some dental tips to keep in mind
Limit sugary foods and drinks: I know this is a hard one to even contemplate during the holidays. Almost everything you see or hear from November through New Year’s Eve is about different kinds of desserts, candy, cookies, chocolates, and other yummy foods and drinks.
This goes without saying, but you should avoid any tobacco products: they can lead to gum disease, oral cancer, staining of your teeth, bad breath, and many other oral and health problems. Limit your alcohol as much as possible, too.
Gifts Options & Final Dental Tips for You
While many of these dental tips may seem obvious, there might be a few in there you didn’t think about. We all know that some accidents are bound to happen, no matter how careful you are. We are here for you if you need us. If you have an emergency or need to schedule a regular appointment, we will be open throughout December, with the exception of a few dates. Please call our office to schedule your appointment now!
Gift Options: We have whitening products and rechargeable toothbrushes for sale through December. They make good holiday gifts and they can be picked up at our office.
Stay safe and have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Reminder: Don’t let your dental insurance benefits expire. Use them before the end of the year!
