For almost everyone, the holidays are synonymous with lots of delicious treats and tasty foods. The holiday season is that time of the year when you feel tempted to let your guard down – even if you have been extra careful about what you put in your mouth in the past – and embark on a binge enjoying all your favorite delicacies.
While some people may resist the temptation to indulge in foods – and drinks – that harm their oral health, most find themselves consuming sweet and sugary foods and washing them down with lots of alcohol and soda.
The thing is, the holiday season is a time for celebrating with friends and family. But, when doing so, you should not ignore your oral health.
While it can be hard to remain focused, you must stick to good health habits and try to avoid overindulgence. In this detailed guide, Straight Teeth Invisible will show you the tips you can use to maintain tip-top dental health without compromising on the enjoyment and fun of the holiday season.
6 Vital Tips to Help You Maintain Healthy Gums and Teeth During the Holiday Season
1. Consume Sugar-Free Foods
A research study published in 2017 proved that a positive association exists between dental decay and sugar consumption. A different research study published in 2016 found significant evidence that sugar is one of the major causes of dental caries.
Yet another research study determined that the prevalence of dental caries is 78%. The study also noted that more than 50% of those with dental caries have never visited a dentist.
The research studies above show you why it is extremely vital that you limit your sugar consumption during the holidays. Instead of consuming foods featuring a heavy sugar content, try sugar-free foods and snacks. Find tasty sugar-free recipes – say, on the internet – and make delicious sugar-free meals that you can enjoy with your family.
2. Limit Soda Consumption
Most sodas have acids in them. These acids soften the enamel’s surface, making it wear down. Most sodas will also cause damage to the dentin. What’s more, soda can also damage your composite fillings.
A research study published in the May of 2009 showed that the inherent sugars and acids in sodas feature both cariogenic and acidogenic potential which result in both enamel erosion and dental caries. In the research study, a 25-year-old man with severely worn-out front teeth had a history of drinking cola for more than seven years.
Holiday parties always have sodas as a go-to drink. Limit your soda consumption when you find yourself at parties.
3. Remember to Brush Your Teeth
The American Dental Association recommends brushing for 2 minutes, at least 2 times per day. However, to keep your teeth white and healthy during the holiday season, you may want to brush more often.
If you are consuming a lot of sugary foods, consider brushing after every meal. Brushing after every meal removes the sugars and acids from your mouth. What’s more, brushing your teeth can discourage you from consuming more sugary foods.
After eating, wait for approximately 30 minutes before using your toothbrush. In cases where you find it impossible to brush 30 minutes after your meal, use your fluoride toothpaste to brush before consuming acidic foods – this will help you avoid the damage that often results from brushing too soon after eating acidic foods.
4. Avoid Drinking Alcohol and Smoking
A research study published in 2016 shows that smoking weakens the body’s immune responsiveness. What’s more, a research study published in 2011 showed that tobacco smoking tends to boost both bacterial acquisition and colonization in oral biofilms.
A more recent research study – published in 2019 – showed that cigarette smoking and exposure to nicotine promote the formation of a caries-susceptible environment and boost the cariogenic activity of the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
A study published in 2017 determined that alcohol increases the risk of mucosal lesions, periodontitis, and dental caries. A study published in 2011 determined that alcohol users are 3 times more likely to experience permanent tooth loss. A study published in 2009 found that people who use alcohol tend to have more plaque than those who don’t.
Alcohol is a common drink served at parties. Also, people tend to smoke more during the holiday season. To keep your teeth healthy, try to minimize – or even better, avoid – drinking and smoking.
5. Avoid Opening Packages with Your Teeth
Bottles are common in the holiday season. While your teeth may be strong enough to open bottles, always opt for a bottle opener.
Using your teeth to open bottles increases the risk of cracking or loosening your teeth. What’s more, it can make your teeth sensitive or even lead to jaw pain.
6. Drink More Water
Water plays a key role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. It prevents dry mouth and also helps minimize the effect of acidic drinks and foods. Drinking water will rinse your mouth and help you wash away the acids, sugars, and leftover foods.
Have More Fun During the Next Holiday Season: Use Invisible Teeth Aligners to Straighten Your Teeth
Crooked teeth can isolate you from the holiday season fun. A research study published in 2017 found that people with misaligned teeth have higher levels of social anxiety. Raising your social anxiety, crooked teeth can make you avoid fun social situations during the holiday season.
Luckily for people with crooked teeth, the orthodontists at Straight Teeth Invisible can help. Using transparent teeth aligners, the orthodontists will improve your teeth’ alignment, boosting your confidence in social situations.
Straight Teeth Invisible handles each patient differently. When you book a FREE e-consultation, a specialized orthodontist will be assigned to your case. The orthodontist will help you understand teeth straightening and answer all the questions you may have about orthodontic treatment.
The orthodontist will explain the difference between invisible teeth aligners and dental braces and help you choose the option that will offer you the most benefits. By the end of the orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will ensure you are satisfied with the results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What foods should I limit to keep my teeth healthy?
During the holiday seasons, limit – or avoid – the following foods:
Hard candies.
All types of sticky and sugary foods.
Starchy snacks – for example, potato chips.
Acidic drinks like wine, tea, and coffee.
Sodas and other types of carbonated drinks.
How can I avoid the temptation to binge on unhealthy foods during the holiday season?
The easiest way to avoid craving sugary foods is to keep yourself busy. While we all aim to relax during the holiday season, you can take up some activity that interests you. A hike or another type of hobby may be an ideal way to keep yourself busy.
Do I need to visit the dentist during the holiday season?
It is recommended that you visit the dentist at least 2 times every year. If you have a dentist appointment during the holiday season, do not ignore it. Your dentist will help you with professional cleaning as well as offer you more tips on how to keep your teeth healthy during the holiday season.
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