The holidays are a wonderful time of year filled with family, friends, and lots and lots of sugary treats. While these treats may taste good, they can be harmful and damaging to your teeth and gums. So what can you do to keep your mouth healthy during the holidays?
First, you should be choosy about the foods that you eat. For example, hard candies or chocolates filled with caramel are likely to spend more time on your enamel. Avoiding these types of sticky treats will help your teeth suffer less in between brushings.
It may seem natural for you to brush your teeth right after you enjoy something sugary. However, did you know that you should actually wait before you brush your teeth? Naturally, you don’t want your teeth to be exposed to sugar for too long, but did you know that eating acidic foods can weaken your enamel? If you brush your teeth while your enamel is softened, you could accidentally damage your teeth.
Lastly, remember to drink lots of water. This will help rinse away food residue that stays on your teeth. Also, staying hydrated helps to keep your mouth’s bacteria in balance. Don’t forget to keep to your oral hygiene routine, and never skip brushing or flossing.
If you’re interested in learning more about caring for your teeth during the holidays, please don’t hesitate to contact Oakdale Family Dentistry at 651-731-6464. Dr. Frank Russomanno, Jr. and our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. We’re eager to hear from you soon!