Everyone loves a good celebration, right? This is the most wonderful time of the year for many people. Moments with family and friends can warm hearts and make memories, but the holidays also cause additional stress—both mental and physical. We keep different hours, eat strange foods, get exposed to more people and can generally feel a little sideways by the time January first rolls around.
Here are some tips to take care of your teeth and gums without sacrificing the decadence of the season.
#1 Dance the Night Away, But Don’t Forget to Brush!
Sometimes, the holiday festivities run late, take us out of our routines, and can undoubtedly exhaust even the most cheerful of us. Late hours, rich foods, and travel can all deplete the immune system, so sticking to a good oral care routine is super important during the holiday season. Don’t let the spirit of the season derail your oral health.
Commit yourself to care for those pearly whites before your head hits the pillow. A night without brushing and flossing can lead to stinky Grinch breath in the morning caused by bacteria growth.
#2 Rinse When You Can’t Brush
Are you out on the town eating tasty treats and sipping red wine or other staining beverages? Unless you pack your toothbrush in your pocket or handbag, you probably don’t excuse yourself to brush after every food that could cause decay or dark teeth. When you can’t brush right away, thoroughly rinsing with water can save the day by washing away surface stains, acidic foods, and drinks.
#3 Don’t Wait to Book Your Necessary Dental Visits
It can be tempting to postpone dentistry until after the holidays, but you can miss out on your benefits and put your oral health at risk. A good rule of thumb is to book your next dental visit at your cleaning appointment so you get the time you want, the day you want, and stay on top of your oral health.
Happy Holidays from Our Family to Yours
At Anthony Bartels DDS, we look forward to helping you achieve your healthiest smile in the coming year. Whether you are a valued existing patient or a new friend looking for a happy dental home in Jonesboro, AR, we welcome your call.