The festive season is well and truly upon us. In a few weeks time, chocolates will be passed around the workplace and mulled wine will be a staple drink offered at home. It’s hard to resist it all, especially if you’ve got some well-earned time off to spend time with family and friends.
Although the subject of weight might be weighing on our minds, it’s also important to think about the effect that all of these treats have on our teeth. As we know, your diet can have a dramatic effect on teeth, and even the relaxed nature that comes with the Christmas season can play a part. Normal routines are forgotten and worrying less about what you eat is common.
Creating the balance between treating yourself while also taking care of your health is so important. Nobody wants to spoil some of the best things about Christmas, and we think you can keep it all. The key is to be prepared and conscious of your decisions.
To help with that, here are five tips to actively take care of your teeth over Christmas that are easy to follow and put into action. Of course, if you ever want more advice on how to take care of your teeth, you can visit a dental clinic in London or wherever you live. With checkups and a variety of cosmetic dental treatments available, it’s a must for everyone wanting to take care of their oral hygiene.
- It’s Okay to Say No
We’re always encouraged to say yes to chances and opportunities, but sometimes, it’s okay to resist. Mulled wine, mince pies, selection boxes; these are just a few of the delicious treats which will be on offer over Christmas. It may be difficult, but there is no harm turning down these delightful foods. You don’t always have to say yes! Christmas is often a time that we eat too much, so cutting back on the sweet snacks and drinks is a good way to help your teeth.
- Stick to Your Regular Brushing Routine
One of the worst things you can do this Christmas is forget your normal daily oral hygiene routine. It’s easily done; you arrive home late from the Christmas party and brushing your teeth just seems like too much effort. But, it’s important to stick to your regular routine.
This should include brushing your teeth twice a day and using fluoride toothpaste. Flossing is another great oral hygiene routine, but do so before brushing your teeth. Mouthwash is also a great way to keep your teeth clean, but, don’t use it after brushing, as it can wash away any fluoride left on your teeth.
These regular practices should be upheld over the festive season and not forgotten at any point. It may seem a little boring or more difficult during this wonderful time of the year, but your teeth will thank you for it!
- Try Not to Snack
Snacking on sugary treats is one of the worst things you can do for your teeth. There are plenty of healthy snack alternatives such as nuts, cheese, or small pieces fruit and vegetables, like carrot or cucumber. Unfortunately, not many people are handing around cucumber at Christmas parties these days.
If somebody offers you a mince pie, you can always save it for later to eat after lunch or, as we’ve mentioned, just politely decline. If you’re bringing in snacks yourself, cheese is a great alternative for your teeth and there is always great variety on offer over the Christmas season.
It’s almost impossible to avoid eating any sugary food and drink at Christmas, but try and have it during a regular meal, like dinnertime, to reduce the build-up of sugar on your teeth throughout the day.
Carry Floss with You
The longer sugar stays on your teeth, the worse it can become. It’s best to try and get rid of it as soon as possible. If you’re at work or out for a meal, carrying your toothbrush and toothpaste isn’t exactly convenient! However, if you know that mince pies and Christmas chocolates will be making their way around the office, you should be prepared.
Simply washing your mouth out with water is a good way to try and remove any sugar lingering on or between teeth. Carrying dental floss is also a great way to be prepared. It only takes two minutes to floss in between teeth and it can help to remove whatever treats are stuck.
- Avoid Using Your Teeth (For Things Other Than Eating!)
Our teeth are incredibly strong, which is ideal for eating. But, as well as using them for eating, some people have found that teeth can be great for tearing or opening other things. Teeth are often the go-to option for opening bottles or tightly wrapped presents. While opening a bottle with your teeth might seem like a great party trick, it is really not good for your teeth. The last thing you want to be doing on Christmas morning is rushing around to find an emergency dentist. Find a bottle opener or a pair of scissors and spare your teeth the pain of doing something they weren’t designed to do!
It’s important to enjoy this time of year and treat yourself, but to also not let it cause you any problems with your oral hygiene afterwards. Take in those well-earned treats in moderation, stick to your hygienic routines, and remember: your teeth are for life — not just for Christmas!