Ah, the holidays. Goblets of wine, sweet treats, loads of food, fun, and frivolity. It is truly glorious, but on a dental hygiene level, it can translate into stained teeth, tooth decay, and gum disease. Check out these simple and helpful tips for healthy teeth and gums after this holiday season.
You should brush at least twice a day at all times, but if you are eating a lot of sugary treats and drinking carbonated sweetened beverages during the holidays, you may want to brush more often. Sugar attracts bad bacteria and can lower the pH in your mouth, increasing the risk of tissue and tooth decay.
Remember to brush gently, 30 seconds per quadrant of your mouth, using circles small, gums and all.
Flossing at least once a day will help remove food debris stuck between teeth that are not removed through your regular brushing. Regular flossing can lower the risk of decay and reduce occurrences of bad breath.
After brushing and flossing, finish with a therapeutic mouth rinse. This can help flush any remaining debris and leave you with a fresh clean mouth.
An increase of alcohol or caffeine consumption during the holidays, as well as a hectic schedule, can lead to dehydration which leads to dry mouth. Your saliva is your front line against tooth decay, so you need to stay hydrated.
Water also helps to keep your mouth clean by flushing it. Some water sources are fluoridated, so they may help make teeth stronger.
One of the best tips for healthy teeth and gums is to get regular teeth cleanings and examinations. This is an excellent way to maintain good oral health as well as identify issues in their early stages.
Really, we mean it. Say yes to the cheese. Consuming cheese may help protect teeth against cavities. The proteins in cheese can help raise the pH levels, so there is less acidity to attack your tooth enamel.
For more ideas on how to keep your smile bright and your mouth healthy during the holiday season, for tips on how to maintain healthy teeth and gums, or to find out more information about our many general, cosmetic, and emergency dental services, contact us today.
The post How to Keep Your Smile Bright After the Holiday Season appeared first on South Temple Dental.
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