As the pandemic still remains as we approach the holidays and a new year, we know that we must all continue to do our part to avoid increasing our and other people’s risk of contracting COVID-19. Although normal family gatherings and celebrations will be different this winter, we must not forget about our mental and physical health (including the health of our teeth!)
Please review some of these quick tips to consider this holiday season:
Manage your Stress
The holidays can be stressful, especially during a global pandemic! Anxiety and stress can lead to the development of detrimental habits if not managed properly. Some harmful dental habits include teeth grinding (bruxism), nail biting, and using your teeth as tools such as to crack open nuts, bottles, or packages. These negative habits can lead to tooth enamel fracture and the need for additional dental procedures. In addition, nail biting can add germs and viruses from the outside world into your body. If you notice that your stress levels may be out of control, take a look at some tips to stay mentally and physically healthy during these troubling times, here.
Stay On Top of Your Dental Hygiene Routine
It can be easy to get off of your normal oral hygiene routine over the holidays. With lots of shopping and holiday festivities, brushing or flossing your teeth may get pushed to the wayside. But, letting food sit on and in-between your teeth can cause the bacteria within your mouth to have a field day, and not a fun one! The bacteria can feed off of the leftover food particles and create acids that breakdown your tooth enamel. It’s important to stay on track and brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Flossing is also an important part of keeping your teeth healthy and dazzling. If you are traveling this holiday season, be sure to continue to follow COVID-19 safety precautions and also pack your complete dental care travel kit equipped with a toothbrush, a fluoride toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash. Remember, keeping up with your oral hygiene is important for managing your overall health.
Watch out for Sticky and Chewy Sweets
Lots of tasty holiday treats are what we all usually look forward to during this time. But, the sticky, hard, chewy, and high sugar content in some sweets can be damaging to your teeth and lead to the development of cavities, toothaches, and tooth fracture. For instance, holiday staples like dried fruit, eggnog, candy canes, caramel, candy apples, and gummies can be damaging to your teeth. Plus, soda and alcohol can be high in sugar and can be acidic. Be sure to brush and floss after consuming these treats and remember, moderation is key. It is also better to consume these treats with meals rather than as snacks throughout the day, because snacking increases the frequency your mouth is subject to a more acidic and harmful environment. Instead, opt for more tooth-friendly treats such as nuts, cheeses, fruit, and vegetables.
Keep up with Your Dentist Check-Ups
Make sure that you are visiting your dentist for your regular check-ups. Let your dentist know of any concerns you may have about your mouth. Your dentist will check during your oral exam for any issues to ensure your overall health.
Keep your teeth merry and bright by following these precautions over the holiday season.
This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Derek, and Dr. Emad is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Stephens would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/holiday-smile#
https://www.dentalassociates.com/blog/7-oral-health-tips-and-tricks-healthy-holiday-season