The holiday season is now in full swing, and for many of us, that means spending a little extra time with that one special person in our lives. However, if you find yourself with them under the mistletoe, it would be tragic if that moment were spoiled due to your dental habits; believe it or not, poor oral health can cause embarrassment! Fortunately, you can easily prevent mishaps and keep your smile looking and feeling great by following a few simple tips.
1. Brush Twice a Day, Even When Things Get Busy
The holiday season can be quite hectic; between wrapping up the work quarter, preparing for midterm exams, organizing travel and family plans, and of course, shopping for presents, it might feel like you don’t have enough time for anything. But your dental hygiene shouldn’t be neglected; not brushing twice a day leaves your teeth vulnerable to bacteria that fuel cavities and contribute to gum disease. Plus, keeping things clean will leave your breath fresh and pleasant!
2. Don’t Neglect Your Flossing Habit
When most of us think about our oral hygiene, brushing our teeth is the first task that comes to mind—and rightly so, given how important it is! But did you know that flossing is just as critical? The bits of food and debris that become stuck between the teeth, especially from holiday-themed dishes, can’t be easily cleared away by brushing, and they’ll continue to sit there and erode your enamel while also contributing to bad breath. Flossing daily cleans out these tight spaces and protects your smile from cavities and gum disease alike. Ask for some dental floss as a stocking stuffer; having it means you’re more likely to use it this upcoming year!
3. Chew Sugar-Free Gum When You Can’t Brush
Keep in mind that this isn’t a substitute for brushing; however, there are oral health benefits to chewing sugar-free gum. Mainly, it stimulates your mouth’s saliva flow, which helps to rinse away lingering food particles and some bacteria. Saliva also contains enzymes that neutralize certain bacteria, meaning it’s your body’s best defense against cavities. Chewing gum is also often mint-flavored, which means any upcoming moments under the mistletoe will be minty-fresh!
Of course, you should also find time to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning during the holiday season if it’s been longer than six months since your last visit. Dental problems tend to be gross, for lack of a better word—so ensure that your smile is in great shape.
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Jennifer A. Reed, our team has served the dental needs of those in Lincoln and the nearby communities for several years. We offer a wide range of services, including the routine preventive care needed to keep your smile looking and feeling its best all year-round! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment before the holiday season gets too busy, please call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (402) 488-5007.
