With the holidays quickly approaching, you’re probably thinking about the travel time and spending time with family and friends. As much as the holidays are about to be thankful and spending time with loved ones, it’s also important to have a plan in place that will help you maintain a healthy smile. Indulging in great food, including sweets is expected and something you should not avoid, but between the traveling, the snacking during football, and the delicious holiday dinners, your teeth and gums may be exposed to a variety of harmful elements. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the holidays while protecting your teeth.
Before Traveling
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your healthy smile when traveling during the holidays is to visit Westminster Dental for an end of the year cleaning and examination. So, before loading the family in the car and heading off to spend the holidays with family, remember to schedule an appointment with the dentist. This will help to ensure your oral health is prepared for more than your usual encounter with the acidic foods and sweets that are a typical part of the holiday meals. Remember to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and flossers so you can brush after meals. Keep in mind that it’s best to drink plenty of water, especially with meals and before brushing.
Eat Foods that are Healthy for Teeth
Holiday traditions often center around eating bountiful meals with family and loved ones. Not only is sharing a meal a great way to spend time with family but when you sit down to a holiday dinner, it may also be healthy for your teeth and gums. Many of the traditional holiday foods include vitamins and other nutrients that are important for good oral health. Some of the foods that you should be sure to include in your holiday meals that will help keep teeth strong and healthy may include:
- Cranberries, which contain flavonoids that may help prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth and causing plague
- Turkey, which is extremely high in phosphorus and it can help to re-mineralize teeth and the jawbones
- Leafy greens, which are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for reducing the risk of periodontal disease
- Pumpkin pie, which is loaded with Vitamin C and calcium, both of which are necessary for bone maintenance, gum health, and developing teeth
Have a safe and happy holiday season and do not forget to keep up with your healthy mouth practices. Brush teeth at least twice each day and floss at least once a day, and rinse your teeth with water after snacks and meals.
No. of times viewed = 26
