Blog / Dental Health

How to Protect Your Teeth During the Holidays

December 16, 2014

A woman smiles at the camera with whiter teeth during the holiday season.

Fruitcake, eggnog, hot chocolate, peppermint bark—tis that time of year for tantalizing treats! You’ll be happy to know that rather than snack-shame you, at Akron Smile, we want you to enjoy some holiday indulgences. However, while doing so, keep in mind these holiday tips for healthy teeth that will allow you to snack on delicious desserts guilt-free.

Use a Straw.

Want to enjoy your hot chocolate without dental damage? Try using a straw that rests on your tongue, rather than against your teeth. This will limit the amount of cocoa coming into contact with your tooth enamel. Sure, it might feel silly to use a straw at first, but if you’re a regular drinker of dark beverages (coffee lovers, we’re talking to you!), the whiter smile you’ll develop will make the straw more than worth it!

Keep your Water Bottle Handy.

Can’t brush your teeth right after a snack? Take a swig of water and then swish it around in your mouth. Many sugary foods—like the aforementioned sticky fruitcakes and peppermint bark—cause bacteria on your teeth to metabolize, producing acid. Yet a generous drink of water will neutralize the acid, helping to keep your teeth in tip-top shape!

Say Cheese.

Enjoying the plentiful appetizers at the latest holiday party? Plan to end your snacking by hitting up the cheese platter.   Because of its high-calcium content, cheese coats your teeth with calcium and phosphorus, which remineralizes them, keeping them strong. Also, as with water, it restores pH levels in the mouth, helping to neutralize the effects of the sugary snacks that preceded it.

As you look forward to the holiday season, there’s no reason to forego the enjoyment of some tasty year-end treats. However, remember that a straw, a glass of water, and a wedge of cheese will help to keep your teeth healthy this season!

Looking to schedule your routine dental exam and cleaning before the parties start? Call or text our office to get yours on the calendar. Or, request an appointment online by filling out our form.