Oral Health Tips for Winter Holidays

Winter is a great time to enjoy time with friends and family. It can be a busy and stressful time, too. Holiday shopping, travel, entertainment, and winter celebrations can add a lot of stress to our lives. Here are some tips to keep your smile safe, these holidays:

Keeping Restrooms Clean

To keep your mouth healthy, avoid sharing toothbrushes or using someone else's toothbrush. Also, don't share items like cups or water bottles that may contain bacteria. Keep sanitized wipes on your hands for cleaning your hands and any surfaces that may have germs on them. Use mouthwash to help prevent cavities from forming in hard-to-reach places.

Limit High-Carb Foods and Beverages

We all know the holiday season means lots of sweets and treats! However, those sugary foods and drinks can also cause cavities if they stay on your teeth for too long. If you are out for a night on the town or hosting a party in your home, be sure to limit your intake of sugary snacks. Try to stick to cheese cubes or mini sandwiches instead. Increasing the saliva in your mouth can help combat the effects of sugar on your teeth. If you just can't resist the desserts, make sure you brush your teeth as soon as possible. Brushing removes food particles from your mouth and helps reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Stay Hydrated

It's common to feel dehydrated in the winter, especially if you're not drinking plenty of fluids. This can cause not only a dry mouth but also increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Carry water with you everywhere so that you can sip on it throughout the day. Water also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that cause plaque buildup and cavities. Try to avoid sugary or acidic beverages. Alcoholic drinks can also dry out your mouth and cause oral pain.

Use Gentle Brushing and Flossing Techniques

Teeth can be sensitive when the cold air hits them, so it's important to use a gentle technique when brushing or flossing. Consider using an electric toothbrush to gently remove plaque and debris from your teeth. Remember to avoid using medium or hard bristles on your teeth to prevent irritation and pain.

You should also floss at least once a day to remove food particles between your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Flossing should be a part of your daily routine throughout the year, but it's especially important during the winter holidays when we eat richer foods and aren't as active as usual. 

Visit Your Dentist

If you want to keep your smile healthy during the holidays, remember to ask your dentist for tips specific to your smile and lifestyle.

If a cavity does develop after the holidays, make sure you make an appointment right away to treat it and restore your tooth's structure and function. Your dentist can provide a tooth-colored filling that blends in with your smile so you can feel confident at holiday parties throughout the season.

To schedule your next dental visit, contact a dentist in Chesterfield, MO, today! You can call us at 636-532-2101 or schedule an appointment online to consult our dentist at Licata Dental.