Good Oral Health Tips for Winter Holidays

Winter holidays are fast approaching. If you are planning to have a vacation, make sure that your oral health doesn't take a break along with you. Listed below are some helpful tips to keep your teeth healthy and strong this holiday season.

Limit Candy Consumption

When Halloween is over and the winter holidays are here, we know it can be tempting to indulge in your favorite treats too often. However, eating too many sugary foods can cause several oral health problems, including cavities. By limiting your sugar intake this season, you can maintain better overall dental health.

From hard candies to cookies to holiday drinks, there are so many sugary foods that you are likely to consume this holiday season. Instead of avoiding these foods altogether, try to eat only one treat a day. When you do eat sweets, remember to brush your teeth as soon as you can. This will help limit the number of times sugars sit on your teeth and cause decay. 

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is important all year long, but it's especially important in the winter months when it's easy to get dehydrated if you're not careful. When your mouth is dry, it's a breeding ground for bacteria and plaque buildup. Water will help keep your mouth and body properly hydrated, so drink up!

Don't Skip Your Dental Checkup

During wintertime, it can be tempting to forego routine visits to the dentist because you're not spending as much time outside enjoying the weather. But skipping even a single cleaning appointment can put you at risk of developing oral infections or tooth decay. Your dentist can catch small problems in time to resolve them before they become serious.

Along with maintaining regular dental checkups and cleanings, don't forget to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. Even during colder temperatures, it's important to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Use a toothbrush with a soft-bristled head to prevent causing irritation to the soft tissues of your mouth. Replace it every three to four months and enjoy a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables to get the most nutritional benefit from your foods. Be sure to floss daily in order to clean your teeth and remove plaque and food particles. Follow up by rinsing with mouthwash to kill any remaining bacteria and keep your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

If you want to learn more tips to maintain good oral health, visit Discount Dental at 2735 W Court St, Pasco, WA 99301. You can also reach us at (509) 212-9227.