Common Dental Issues During the Holiday Season, and How To Avoid Them.
How to Prevent Dental Issues during the Holiday Season:
Be Mindful of Sugary Foods: The holiday season often provides many opportunities to enjoy sweet sugary foods. These food can lead to tooth decay, and consuming them in moderation will aid in preserving your dental health. Remember to rinse your mouth with water afterwards!
Stick to your oral care routine: During the holiday season it’s important to continue your oral care routine, if not increase it. Brushing and flossing a little more than usual will help ensure that those sweet, sticky holiday treats don’t get trapped in your teeth.
Drink water & stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles that can get stuck between your teeth and cause cavities. It also helps keep your mouth hydrated, which is important for maintaining healthy gums and teeth enamel.
Schedule a pre/post-holiday check-up: Even if you’re taking good care of your teeth at home, it’s still imperative to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings throughout the year. This will help catch potential issues early on before they become more serious problems down the line.
Common Teeth Issues after the holidays:
1. Cavities
Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth break down food particles and produce acid, which erodes tooth enamel. This erosion leaves small holes in the teeth, creating an environment where bacteria can grow and cause further damage. Sugary treats like candy canes, cookies, and cakes are especially bad for your teeth because they contain high amounts of sugar that fuel bacterial growth and can lead to cavities.
2. Tooth Sensitivity
Another common problem during this time of year is tooth sensitivity. The cold outside and warm air inside can cause temperature changes that make teeth more sensitive to hot and cold foods or drinks. This increase in sensitivity can cause pain or discomfort when eating or drinking something too hot or cold. If you experience this, try using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth or talk to your dentist about other treatments that may help reduce your symptoms. It’s also important to remember that even if you brush and floss regularly during the holidays, it’s still possible to get a dental infection from overindulging in sugary treats.
3. Dental infections
Dental infections are caused by bacteria entering through tiny openings in the gums and spreading throughout the mouth. These infections can cause pain, swelling, fever, and other complications if left untreated. To prevent this from happening, keep up with regular brushing and flossing, and visit your dentist for regular checkups so they can spot any signs of infection before it becomes a bigger issue.
For any of your holiday dental needs, please don’t hesitate contact us!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU ALL!