4 Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy Over the Holidays

The holidays are normally filled with family fun, but if you overindulge on sugary treats or crack your tooth trying to open a package or a nut, it can bring the celebrations to an abrupt halt. Your emergency dentist can help you save your damaged teeth and stop your pain, but of course, the best solution for any oral health issue is to make sure it never happens in the first place! Follow these 4 tips to keep your smile safe during the most wonderful time of the year.

1. Say “No Thanks” to Sticky Foods

Caramel and peanut brittle might be delicious seasonal treats, but they’re also some of the most potentially damaging foods when it comes to your teeth. Sticky sweets leave sugar on your teeth for a long time, meaning they carry a particularly high risk of leading to tooth decay. Also, chewing on something sticky could pull a filling or a crown away from your tooth. It’s better to stay away from these foods whenever possible.

2. Be Careful What You Bite Into

Cracking open a nut with your teeth might seem like it saves time, but biting down on a hard surface can crack your teeth and might even damage your gums. It’s better to shell nuts before you put them in your mouth. Similarly, avoid crunching ice and hard candy, and be careful not to chew on any kernels when eating popcorn.

3. Remember That Your Teeth are Not Scissors

If you’re struggling to open a particularly stubborn package, it can be tempting to try and use your teeth to make the task easier. However, this can wear down your enamel and ultimately weaken your teeth – and that means they’re much more likely to break. Always reach for the scissors or another tool to do the job instead.

4. Eat Sugary Treats in Moderation

From eggnog to candy canes, there are so many treats that are only really enjoyed during the holiday season. You don’t need to swear off sugar altogether, but it is important to pay attention to how much sugar you’re putting in your mouth. Instead of snacking on sweets all throughout the day, try to save them for meals; this way, there will be more saliva in your mouth to help you get rid of harmful food particles. If you do decide to indulge, try to wash down your holiday treat with a glass of water afterwards.

Keep in mind that even if you follow these tips, there’s still a chance that your teeth won’t make it through the holidays unscathed. It might be a good idea to schedule a post-holiday dental appointment so that your dentist can thoroughly clean your teeth and address any cavities or other oral health issues that might have started to develop. Don’t let the festivities end with a damaged smile!

About the Author

In 2013, Dr. Anita Kianimanesh – known to her patients as Dr. Kiani – became the new owner of Purple Plum Dentistry in Skyline, Falls Church; since then, she has proudly served patients who have been part of the practice for over 20 years. She’ll go out of her way to see you in record time if you have a dental emergency. To schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (703) 998-4244.