Are the Holidays a Bad Time for Your Dental Health?

The holidays can add a few extra pounds to the scale the next time you step on it, but a little unwanted weight isn’t the only downside of the season. The next few weeks can be a bad time for your dental health. The holidays can come back to haunt your smile when you visit your dentist. Here are 4 ways the countdown to the end of the year can affect your dental health and what you can do to protect your smile.

1. More Snacking and Sweet Treats

You’ll be surrounded by many delicious meals and snacks that will tempt your taste buds. Resisting stuffing, cookies, and eggnog can be impossible, which can increase your risk of tooth decay. Sugars and starches feed cavity-causing bacteria that can erode your enamel. 

You can safeguard your enamel from decay by watching what you eat. Limit starches and sugars. Instead, choose fresh fruits and vegetables.

2. Less Brushing and Flossing

Life gets pretty busy during the holidays, which means you may skip brushing before bed after a long day of shopping for gifts. It can be difficult to follow your oral hygiene routine if you’re traveling for the holidays. Poor oral hygiene for even a few weeks can lead to cavities and gum disease.

It’s best to brush your teeth at least twice daily. Strive to brush after every meal if you’re snacking more often. Don’t forget to floss every day. Create an oral hygiene kit with travel-sized products to keep your mouth clean while on the go.

3. Drinking Alcohol

It’s not unusual to drink a little alcohol as you celebrate the holidays with friends and loved ones. However, alcohol causes dehydration, which will make your mouth dry. This creates a great environment for oral bacteria growth that can cause bad breath, decay, and infections. It is better to drink water whenever possible, especially if you’re drinking alcohol.

4. Skipping Dental Checkups

As you plan family gatherings and shop for gifts, you might overlook your semi-annual cleaning and checkup. Skipping your routine visit can cause dental issues to go undetected until they turn into big problems.

Although your schedule might be busy, commit to visiting your dentist. They’ll keep your mouth healthy and your smile looking its best.

About Dr. Khoa Pham

Dr. Pham achieved his dental degree at the Baylor College of Dentistry and has continued his training through SPEAR Education. He provides the most up-to-date services to create healthy, beautiful smiles. Dr. Pham is a proud member of the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call (817) 587-4520.