The holidays may be the only time of the year that you’re able to enjoy your favorite sweets made by your grandma. But without the proper preventive measures in and a good oral hygiene routine in place, you could be increasing your risk of developing pesky problems such as cavities and gum disease. Instead of risking your oral health for your favorite treats you only get to enjoy once every year, follow these four oral health tips from your family dentist in Dallas, GA.
Visit Your Dentist Before or After the Holidays
Scheduling your semi-annual checkup and cleaning either before or after your holiday celebrations can give you the peace-of-mind you deserve by getting any lingering oral health problems treated. You don’t have to completely deprive yourself of enjoying your grandma’s delicious baked goods, as long as you ensure that any possible oral health problems are taken care of. During your checkup and cleaning, your dentist will clear your mouth of plaque and tartar and prevent any small problems from having a chance to cause permanent damage down the road.
Stay Hydrated With Water
Water helps neutralize enamel-eroding acid produced by harmful oral bacteria. It also helps clean your mouth of sugar and carbohydrates that feed bacteria and allow them to produce waste that causes problems like cavities. Try keeping a reusable water bottle on you at all times to keep these substances from accumulating.
Control Holiday-Induced Stress
The holidays can be stressful, especially if you’re hosting your family that’s travelling in from across the country. So much responsibility can cause you to develop anxiety, which can impact your oral health. When your body internalizes these emotional responses because of how much is on your plate, it can manifest into bad habits such as teeth grinding. This can wear down your enamel and leave your teeth vulnerable to decay. Instead, make yourself a priority and step away from situations that trigger your stress to read, meditate, or simply distract yourself from all the responsibility or weight that you’re feeling.
Keep Up With Brushing and Flossing
At-home dental hygiene routines are often your first line of defense against pesky oral health problems. If you let your hectic holiday schedule get in the way of you remembering to brush and floss every day, it could allow harmful oral bacteria to accumulate and cause serious problems. Instead, be sure to set a morning and nightly reminder in your phone so you don’t forget to take care of your teeth and gums.
With the proper preventive dental practices in place, you’ll be able to keep your smile fresh, bright, and beautiful over the holidays. The best gift to yourself is a clean bill of health, which is why scheduling your checkup and cleaning is a great way to kick off the season.
About the Author
Dr. Bobby Shirley is dedicated to providing his patients high-quality preventive dental care that they can trust. He is an active member of several professional organizations that allow him to sharpen his skills and stay up-to-date with the latest dental technology. He is also passionate about continuing his growth as a dentist and always strives to build strong relationships with each of his patients. For questions or to schedule routine checkups and cleanings, visit Distinctive Dentistry’s website or call 770-445-6606.
