As the holiday season comes upon us, we are headed toward parties, events and luscious holiday snacks. We also tend to eat more sugary snacks and foods. Time is limited, so it is more important than ever to be intentional about keeping our teeth healthy.
- Drink Water after Holiday Beverages
For the kids who are not drinking alcoholic beverages, rinsing with water after downing a sugary soda helps dilute the plaque that takes over. As for Mom and Dad, rinsing after a glass of wine helps too. Plaque produces acid that attacks the enamel of teeth.
- Be Careful with Sweet Treats
Candy canes and cookies wreck your teeth, so consume in moderation. This is difficult for many. Chocolate by itself can be beneficial as it creates a waxy layer that temporarily protects the enamel from acid producing plaque. Good News! Also chewing gum with xylitol can benefit the teeth as well following a “sugar surge”.
- Try to Keep Stress Low
This is easier said than done, but it can be done. Stress can bring on grinding and clenching and this can be damaging to tooth structure, as well as create pain in teeth, jaws, and joints. Headaches can flair up as well. A low stressed individual is less likely to attract illness producing germs! Keep it cool… Cheers!