The holidays are full of warmth, social commitments, and treats galore. But as fun and festive as the holidays can be, the goodies can do a real number on not just your overall health but also your teeth. Foods and drinks rarely consumed can lead to unexpected dental emergencies. In fact, the American Dental Association estimates that approximately 2.1 million Emergency Department dental visits occur annually. Fortunately, a holiday dental emergency can be avoided with a few simple tips.
Use the Right Tools, Not Your Teeth
Bottles, packages, and even nuts are plentiful around the holidays, and each item has its own special tool to assist the user. However, many people opt to bypass the tools and use their teeth instead. That’s where the trouble ensues. While your teeth are strong, non-food items will more than often be stronger and lead to serious damage. Avoid the pain and financial strain by using the right tool instead.
Avoid Or Minimize Sticky Treats
Almost all American adults have some form of tooth decay and nearly 25% of those include untreated cavities. Bacteria is a serious concern without the help of extra sticky holiday treats. One way to keep the bacteria at bay is to avoid the soft, chewy goodies altogether. If that’s not possible, at least try to minimize the indulgence. Not only will it reduce the bacteria build up, but it will also help avoid damage to existing dental treatments like crowns and fillings.
Don’t Chew Hard Candy
Hard candy is a special treat around the holidays, and many people–young and old–just can’t seem to resist the urge to crunch down on the sticks or discs. Candy canes and peppermint stars may seem chewy once you’ve cracked through their surface, but they can do the same to your teeth. Cracks, chips, and tooth fractures are common results of biting into hard candy or even other items like ice cubes. If you can’t resist the temptation, let the treat dissolve in your mouth instead of chewing on it. And be sure to enjoy it in moderation.
Increase Your Water Intake
Candy isn’t the only concern around the holidays. So many delicious beverages are available that it’s hard to remember water exists as well. After all, who would choose a clear glass of water instead of wine, eggnog, pop, or homemade cider? But all of those delicious beverages are packed with sugar and acids that stick to the teeth and encourage bacteria and decay. Water washes away the bad stuff, increases saliva and enzymes, and helps reduce bacteria so you can indulge a bit in the other goodies. Just be sure to increase your water intake around the holidays and even choose water instead of the other options once in a while.
Pack Your Toothbrush
Proper home oral health care is essential for maintaining healthy teeth, and that’s especially important around the holidays when access to treats is at an all-time high. Sweet treats can stick in the teeth and cause damage within an hour or even instantly. But even wonderful staples like turkey, gravy, and mashed potatoes can leave behind extra plaque and acids that transform to decay in no time. Cranberry sauce is especially high in acid and accidentally chomping on a hard rind or nut can loosen a filling or crack a tooth. Bring along your toothbrush and floss whenever you visit for the holidays so you can give your teeth the extra attention they need. It just may help you avoid needing an emergency dentist visit with your Moorestown dentist.
