EIGHT Helpful Dental Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it cold weather, warm beverages, delicious snacks, and lots of temptations to break from healthy eating. So here are a few tips from your family dentist in Kansas City to help you make the most of your holidays while still protecting your healthy smile:

Take it easy on your teeth. The holidays bring lots of amazing foods, but before you crack open that nut with your teeth, remember that the holidays are also the season of the nutcracker. There’s a reason the famous ballet is associated with Christmas, after all, and keeping it in mind may help save you from chipped or cracked teeth. The same goes for chewing on ice cubes or hard candies as well.

Go easy on the candy, too. Sure, sweet stuff is just as much a part of the holiday season as festive decorations and family gatherings. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without a few cookies, candy canes, or whatever treats are a part of your particular holiday tradition. Just try to enjoy the sugary stuff in moderation, and when you do indulge, remember to brush and floss after.

Choose the dark chocolate. If you’re going to indulge in a little chocolate, stick to dark chocolate over milk chocolate or white chocolate. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and flavonoids (it’s a real word, we promise) that are good for your teeth and your overall health.

Opt for light-colored beverages. There’s eggnog and hot chocolate and so many delicious things to drink around the holidays, but if you’re concerned with having whiter and brighter teeth, it’s a good idea to go for beverages that won’t stain. Red wine and cranberry juice may taste great, but they may also leave you with discolored teeth just in time for those holiday photos.

Chew a stick of cinnamon gum. Whatever you eat or drink, you can help protect your teeth by chewing some sugar-free, cinnamon-flavored gum afterward, especially when you don’t have the option of brushing right away. Plus, cinnamon helps freshen your breath and is very merry during any mistletoe-related encounters.

Drink plenty of water. A good way to feel bad the morning after a holiday party is to let yourself become dehydrated. Mix your festive beverages and snacks with plenty of water in order to help keep your mouth moisturized and ensure that you’re getting the hydration your body needs.

Be a health-conscious holiday host. If you have guests staying over for the holidays, know what types of dietary restrictions they may have, and serve health-friendly foods along with the usual holiday snacks. It’s also a good idea to pick up a stash of travel-size toiletries in case your overnight guests forget their toothbrushes, toothpaste, or floss.

Lastly, maintain your oral health routine. Unfortunately, it can be all too easy to let your usual habits fall by the wayside in all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, but it’s as important as ever to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and, of course, come visit your Kansas City family dentist!

Need to schedule your post-holiday checkup and cleaning now? Just call Blacker Family Dental in Kansas City, MO at (816) 763-8400 or click here to schedule an appointment.