The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and festive treats—cookies, candies, pies, and more! While indulging in your favorite holiday goodies is part of the fun, keeping your oral health in check is essential. Our team at Norco Family Dental wants to share simple tips to help you enjoy the season while keeping your smile bright and healthy.
Be Mindful of Sugar
Sugar may be the star of the holiday table, but it’s also your teeth’s worst enemy. When you eat sugary treats, bacteria in your mouth turn that sugar into acid, which can lead to cavities. Enjoy sweets in moderation, and try to eat them with meals instead of snacking throughout the day. Saliva production increases during meals, which helps wash away sugars and neutralize acids.
Rinse After Snacking
You don’t have to say no to peppermint bark or a slice of pie. Just follow it up with a glass of water. Rinsing your mouth helps wash away sugar and reduces the acid lingering on your teeth. It’s an easy habit that makes a big difference.
Stick to Your Routine
Holiday hustle and bustle can throw off your schedule, but don’t let it derail your oral hygiene routine. Brush twice daily for two minutes and floss daily to keep plaque and food particles at bay. If you’re traveling, pack a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss so you can stick to your healthy habits wherever you go.
Make Tooth-Friendly Choices
Balance sugary snacks with healthier options for your teeth, like crunchy veggies, cheese, and nuts. Cheese and nuts help neutralize acids, while crunchy veggies like carrots and celery are natural toothbrushes to clean your teeth.
Schedule a Post-Holiday Cleaning
Start the new year with a clean, fresh smile! A professional dental cleaning can remove plaque or tartar buildup and keep your teeth in exceptional shape.
Call Our Dentists in Greeley, CO
At Norco Family Dental, we want you to enjoy the holidays without sacrificing your oral health. With a bit of mindfulness and a consistent routine, you can protect your smile and still enjoy the season’s sweetest moments. Call us today to schedule your post-holiday checkup.