The holiday season has officially begun, now, and that means you will likely soon be spending quality time gathered around a table filled with delicious foods, from traditional stuffing to homemade pie. While the occasional treat shouldn’t harm your dental health, or your overall wellbeing, it can be helpful to head into the festive holiday season resolved to make smart decisions where your body and smile are concerned. By simply being mindful of what you’re consuming, and how you’re caring for your teeth and gums, you can help protect yourself against common dental problems!
Watch What You Eat
While eating some sweet treats, in moderation, should not jeopardize your health, it is important to be mindful of how much sugar you are consuming. Too much sugar can lead to the development of cavities, gum disease, not to mention the ill effects it can have on one’s overall health.
Before hitting the dessert spread at your next gathering, try to fill up on healthy items, instead. Fresh veggies, for instance, help to satiate, and their high water content can actually help to gently clean teeth between brushings. Fresh fruit is another healthy option, and one that can help to satisfy your sweet tooth!
When you do indulge in a sweet treat, like a slice of pie or even marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes, try to brush your teeth as soon as possible, afterwards, in order to remove as much bacteria as you can.
Drink Lots of Water
Of course, another simple way to protect one’s smile and overall health is by drinking plenty of water throughout each day. Drinking water helps to gently rinse the teeth and gums clean, in between brushings. It also prevents dry mouth, which can lead to irritation, bad breath, and other issues.
So, while eggnog and cider are tempting, and fine in moderation, make sure you are also drinking plenty of water during your holiday gatherings. Your next dental checkup and cleaning is likely to go much better, if you are consistently drinking water!
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.