Is your office overflowing with holiday treats this season? If so, you may be wondering how to protect your teeth and gums from the damage. Here are eight easy steps you can take to stay in good oral health during these winter months!
1. Brush immediately after your meals.
Did you know that the bacteria in plaque feed on the sugars in your food? These bacteria take about 20 minutes to metabolize the sugars and,when they’re done, they excrete harmful acids onto the surface of your teeth. In order to protect your teeth from these bacteria, be sure to brush your teeth right after your meals. If you can wash them away before they’re done metabolizing your sugars, you can help protect your teeth from the damage they cause!
2. Don’t forget to floss!
Flossing is one of the most important (and most overlooked) aspects of any solid dental hygiene routine. Flossing helps to remove the food debris and plaque that gets stuck between your teeth and gums, and it is one of the best ways to prevent gingivitis and tooth decay. Therefore, be sure to floss your teeth at least once a day.
3. Need stocking stuffers? Try buying toothbrushes!
According to the American Dental Association, you should replace your toothbrush at least once every three months. This helps to protect you from the bacteria that naturally build up on your toothbrush over time, and it allows you to make sure your bristles are removing plaque as effectively as possible. By putting toothbrushes in your stockings this year, you can make sure you and your family remain in good oral health.
4. hew sugar-free gum.
Not all gum is bad for you! In fact, gum that contains Xylitol actually helps to boost your saliva production and fight tooth decay. So if you suffer from dry mouth or frequent cavities, try chewing on some sugar-free gum between meals.
5. Drink plenty of water.
Water is so important for your overall health, and fluoridated water is particularly important for your teeth. When you drink fluoride, it helps to fortify your dental enamel against decay. So instead of drinking sugary beverages all season long, try replacing that hot cocoa with a hot water and lemon!
6. Avoid sticky sweets and hard candies.
Sugar is particularly harmful to your teeth and gums as it leads to the “acid attacks” that cause decay. However, the sugary sweets that linger on your teeth for longer periods actually do even more damage than the ones that you can swallow quickly. Therefore, try avoiding the lollipops, caramels, or other long-lasting sweets this holiday season.
7. Put out a veggie platter.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, celery, cucumbers, etc. actually scrub your teeth just like a toothbrush. This helps you to wash away harmful plaque that would otherwise lead to tooth decay and gingivitis. Therefore, consider putting out a fruit and vegetable platter at your next holiday gathering!
8. Schedule a post-holiday visit.
The best way to restore your oral health is to pay a visit to your dentist for a check-up and professional cleaning!
To help fix any damage that your teeth and gums have endured over the holidays, call Carillon Family Dental in Romeoville to set up your next appointment.