Keep your teeth a priority this holiday season

The holiday season is known for an increased amount of sugar consumption, which can have a negative impact on your oral health. The following are tips on how to keep your teeth healthy while enjoying the flavors of the season.

• Brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste. Brush all teeth surfaces to eliminate bacteria and plaque. Use a soft bristled toothbrush, as medium or hard bristles can damage your gums.
• Don’t use tobacco products. Smoking is a leading cause of oral cancer and gum disease.
• Brush your teeth twice per day and floss at least once. Only brushing your teeth misses the cracks and crevices of your teeth. To best clean those hard-to-reach places, use a piece of floss about 18 inches long, and wrap around a tooth to create a “c” shape and continue on all teeth.
• Use antibacterial mouthwash once per day. Mouthwash helps kill surface bacteria. A non-alcoholic mouthwash can help prevent dry mouth symptoms.
• Brush your tongue. The tongue is like a sponge for bacteria. It is important to brush your tongue to kill the bacteria. An alternative is to purchase a tongue scraper in the oral hygiene aisle.
• Limit intake of alcoholic drinks. Drinks such as white wine, beer and hard ciders tend to be very acidic, causing erosion of tooth enamel. Limit the amount of these drinks to protect your teeth in the long run. 

The benefits of improved oral health include fresher breath, healthier teeth and gums, a reduced need for dental work, a reduced risk of oral cancer and a brighter smile. Keep the holidays pain free by making your oral health a priority.

Sources:
“Oral Hygiene.” my.clevelandclinic.org, Cleveland Clinic, 21 April 2022
“Oral health tips.” cdc.gov, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 9 November 2021
“Drugs, alcohol and your oral health.” dentalhealth.org, The Oral Health Foundation

 Disclaimer: This information contained herein is for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice and if you have questions regarding a medical condition, regimen, or treatment you should always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider. Never disregard or delay seeking medical advice from a qualified medical professional because of information you have read herein.