Protect Your Oral Health This Holiday Season: 3 Helpful Tips

One of the best things about the holiday season is fun, family, festivities, and very importantly, food. Whether it's pumpkin pie, eggnog, or some other treat, there are a lot of options to enjoy. If you're anything like the average person, indulging in these delights isn't exactly optional. Ensure you are prepping your teeth to remain healthy and strong all season long.

Have An Exam

If you missed your last biannual dental exam, it's important to schedule an appointment soon. As part of the exam the provider will ensure you aren't dealing with any concerns, such as decay. If this concern is left untreated and you are consuming an excessive amount of sugar, this can really send the rate at which the decay is occurring into high gear, which can cause pain and even tooth loss.

In the event of decay, the provider will be able to perform a thorough cleaning and apply a sealant to your teeth, which works to halt the existing decay and protect against future decay. With a sealant, you don't have to worry about doing more damage to your teeth as you enjoy yourself.

Boost At Home Efforts

The period just before the holiday season is a great time to boost your oral hygiene efforts. Start this off by inspecting your toothbrush. While most people go by the three-month rule, anytime the bristles on your toothbrush are frayed or worn, it's time to replace. Even if you are brushing twice a day, a brush in this state won't be effective at properly cleaning your teeth.

This is also a great time to ensure you are flossing regularly. In addition to flossing in the morning and at night, consider keeping a small pack of floss on you so that you can clean your teeth when you're out and about visiting with family and friends.

Eat Healthy When You Can

As long as you are adhering to a rigid oral hygiene schedule, you should be able to keep your oral health intact. However, you can boost your efforts by eating healthy when you can. It's okay to indulge at a holiday party or other gathering, but try to keep most of your eating habits on the healthy side.

For example, if you know you are going to a gathering that will be packed with a wide array of deserts, eat a healthy snack before you arrive, such as thinly sliced carrots. Once you arrive at the party, you won't be so hungry that you will end up eating more sugary treats than you should.  

As long as you keep your oral health a priority, you can indulge and enjoy yourself this holiday season. For more information, contact local professionals like Legacy Dental Arts.