The holidays are an exciting time of the year as you gather with friends and loved ones. You do not want anything to stand in your way of fun meals and holiday shopping. Although your schedule might be a bit busier, do not neglect your oral hygiene. While it may not seem like a big deal to overindulge on sugary treats for a few days or skip brushing here and there, it could lead to poor news at your next appointment with your family dentist in San Antonio. To protect your family’s smiles during the holidays, there are a few easy tips to keep in mind.
- Brush Twice a Day
Your toothbrush is your first line of defense against preventable oral hygiene issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. It is recommended you brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to clean all surfaces of your teeth, your tongue, and the inside of your cheeks.
At the end of a long day, you may be tempted to climb in bed without brushing but take 2 minutes to clean your teeth. If you are away from home, purchase travel-size products to keep your smile clean.
- Floss Nightly
Brushing is only half the care your teeth need. To clean places missed by your toothbrush, you need to floss every night before going to bed. Choose a high-quality floss to clean in between each tooth and around the gum line.
- Drink Up
Water is vital to keeping you hydrated, but it is also important for a healthy smile. Water helps to cleanse your teeth in between brushing. Be sure to drink plenty of fluorinated tap water throughout the day to rinse harmful food particles and bacteria from your teeth.
- Skips Sugar and Carbs
Although you are surrounded by sweet treats and carbs, it is best to stick with fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products. The sugars can cling to your teeth and erode your enamel, leading to a cavity. To keep your smile healthy, snack smart during the holidays.
- Chew Sugarless Gum
Chewing sugarless gum helps to increase saliva production, which cleans your teeth. After eating or if your mouth feels dirty, grab a piece of gum to keep your smile healthy.
Maintain a Healthy Smile for the New Year
With a proactive approach during the holidays, you can ensure you start the new year with a healthy, beautiful smile. Besides your oral hygiene habits at home, do not forget to visit your dentist in San Antonio for a cleaning and checkup before your schedule becomes too busy.
About Dr. Racha W. Kadamani
Dr. Racha W. Kadamani provides cutting-edge dentistry to help her patients achieve optimal oral health. With a focus on prevention, she strives to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you need a cleaning and checkup before the new year, do not wait. Contact Laith Family Dentistry today for an appointment.
