The holiday season is a time for celebration, family, and indulgence. But amidst the joy of festive meals, late-night parties, and sweet treats, it’s easy to let your oral health take a backseat. After all, who’s thinking about flossing while enjoying that second helping of pumpkin pie or sipping mulled wine by the fire?
Yet, holiday habits can leave a lasting impact on your teeth. By avoiding a few common mistakes, you can ring in the New Year with a smile that’s as bright as your holiday lights.
1. Forgetting to Floss After Feasting
Holiday dinners are often packed with delicious, sticky, or crunchy foods—think stuffing, cranberry sauce, and caramel desserts. These can easily get trapped between your teeth, creating a playground for bacteria.
A story we hear every year: someone shows up in January with a cavity that started from neglected flossing over the holidays. Don’t let that be you! Take two minutes before bed to floss, especially after feasting on sugary or starchy foods. Your future self (and dentist) will thank you.
2. Using Your Teeth as Tools
Unwrapping gifts, opening bottles, or even cracking nuts—if you’ve ever used your teeth for these tasks, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, they’re not built for that kind of pressure. One slip, and you could end up with a cracked tooth or damaged enamel.
This holiday season, keep a pair of scissors or a bottle opener nearby. It’s much easier than making an emergency trip to the dentist for a repair.
3. Overindulging in Sweet Treats
From candy canes to chocolate truffles, the holidays are synonymous with sugar. While it’s okay to enjoy your favorite treats, moderation is key. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, leading to plaque buildup and an increased risk of cavities.
To balance things out, try pairing sweet treats with water instead of sugary beverages like soda or eggnog. Water not only rinses away lingering sugars but also helps maintain saliva flow, your mouth’s natural defense against decay.
4. Skipping Your Brushing Routine
Holiday schedules can be hectic, and it’s tempting to crash into bed without brushing after a long day. But skipping even one brushing session can allow plaque to harden into tartar, which only a dentist can remove.
No matter how late it is, make brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste a non-negotiable part of your routine. Consider packing a travel-sized toothbrush if you’re on the go.
5. Ignoring Tooth Sensitivity
Love hot cocoa by the fireplace but wincing every time you take a sip? Tooth sensitivity can flare up during the holidays, especially with all the hot drinks and cold-weather exposure. Don’t ignore it! Sensitivity could be a sign of enamel damage or gum recession.
Using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help, but if the problem persists, make an appointment with your dentist to rule out deeper issues.
Give Your Smile the Gift of Care
The holidays should be about celebrating—not worrying about your teeth. By avoiding these common oral health mistakes, you can enjoy all the season’s delights while keeping your smile merry and bright.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our office via our contact form or call 403-407-5730.
*all procedures at our practice are performed by a general dentist
