Oral Health Over the Holidays:
Tips From Springbank Dental Centre

The holiday season is a time of cheer, excitement, and indulgence. We look forward to the treats, sweets, and drinks that this time of year brings. However, as we indulge in all the festive food and drinks, we often forget about our oral health. The abundance of sugary treats and beverages during the holiday season can wreak havoc on our teeth and gums if we don't take the necessary precautions.

At Springbank Dental Centre, we believe that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, even during the holiday season. With just a few simple steps, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout the festive period without sacrificing any of the fun.

1. Be Conscious of What You Eat and Drink
   
   Even during your hectic holiday preparations, don't neglect your oral care routine. Brush twice each day and floss at least once each day. If traveling abroad, make sure you pack a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste so you can maintain this practice on the road. Sugary foods and drinks are known to wreak havoc on your teeth. Unfortunately, during the holidays, it can be easy to indulge in sweets and treats without thinking twice. Try to limit your consumption as much as possible. If you do indulge, rinse your mouth afterward with water to flush away any residual sugar residues from your system.
   
   
2. Maintain Your Oral Care Routine
   
   Even during your hectic holiday preparations, don't neglect your oral care routine. Brush twice each day and floss at least once each day. If traveling abroad, make sure you pack a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste so you can maintain this practice on the road.
   
   
3. Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
   
   Cracking nuts with your teeth might seem like a convenient solution, but doing so could cause irreparable dental damage. Instead, opt for appropriate tools such as scissors or a nutcracker.
   
   
4. Stay Hydrated
   
   Water is essential for our overall health and wellbeing, but did you know it can also have a beneficial effect on oral health? Staying hydrated by sipping on water throughout the day helps flush away debris that contributes to tooth decay and bad breath while also keeping the mouth hydrated. By keeping the mouth hydrated, you can ensure it remains clean, fresh, and free from the buildup of food debris that could contribute to decay or bad breath.
   
   As we eat or drink, our mouths produce saliva to neutralize acids produced by bacteria in our mouths and wash away food debris and particles. However, if we fail to drink enough water, our mouths may become dry, decreasing saliva production, which could lead to the buildup of bacteria and food particles, leading to bad breath as well as increasing the risk of tooth decay.
   
   By drinking water regularly, we keep our mouths hydrated, which encourages saliva production. Saliva serves to neutralize acids, wash away food particles, and fight harmful bacteria. Drinking water also helps flush away food or beverages that stick to our teeth and gums, thereby decreasing the risk of plaque buildup or tartar buildup.
   
   
5. Set Up an Appointment With the Dentist
   
   If it has been a while since your last dental checkup, schedule an appointment at Springbank Dental Centreimmediately. Regular checkups and cleanings can help identify potential issues before they escalate into larger concerns.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the holiday season while simultaneously maintaining excellent dental health. Remember that prevention is key when it comes to dental wellness. Happy Holidays from Springbank Dental Centre!