It’s here again, the festive season! The time where most of us can relax and celebrate with family and friends.
Where we can eat Christmas cakes and desserts until we’re passed out on the couch, with an overfilled stomach and a mind full of regret.
It all tastes amazing and our taste buds are buzzing!
But what about our teeth and gums? They’re been attacked by acids the entire time and are feeling very unhappy.
Here are our top ways you can protect your teeth and gums over the holidays, so you can maintain your good oral health.
Our top ways you can maintain healthy teeth and gums over the holiday season:
1. Brush and floss:
You should be brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush (soft on gums) and fluoride toothpaste (helps enamel) to remove plaque and food debris. It’s important to brush your teeth to prevent tooth decay and chances of gum infections.
We also recommend flossing once a day, because floss removes plaque and food from where the toothbrush cannot reach.
2. Mouthwash and rinsing:
We recommend the use of a mouthwash daily as this kills bacterium inside your mouth and also helps prevent bad breath. It is also important to rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking to wash away excess sugars, acids and bits.
3. Choose the healthier options:
Instead of reaching for the unhealthy options first, why not fill your plate with the healthy options that are full of vitamins and nutrients. This doesn’t mean avoiding the unhealthy options, it just means you will have less room on your plate for them.
4. Try to avoid sugar:
One of the worst things to have is sugary things, as sugar is the reason your teeth rot. The bacteria in plaque turns sugars into acids that eat through your teeth’s enamel. So, do yourself a favour and try to avoid sugary snacks and sweets.
It is important to take care of your enamel, as once it’s destroyed you cannot bring it back. However damaged enamel can be restored through fluoride products and taking care.
5. Avoid grazing:
Don’t graze on snacks as this does not allow your teeth time to recover between acid attacks. Grazing prolongs acid attacks on for as long as you graze.
6. Prosecco teeth:
Does prosecco rot your teeth? You should try to avoid sparkling wines as they are terrible for your teeth. Prosecco are acidic and carbonated which rot your teeth and can overtime pull your teeth away from your gums.
7. Soft drinks and juices:
We recommend staying clear of soft drinks completely, as they are generally high in sugar and contain acids.
Juices are acidic and should be drunk in moderation and you should flush your mouth out with water afterwards.
8. Visit your dentist:
Having checkups with your dentist are important to receive professional cleaning and for any issues to be found within your mouth. We recommend a checkup every 6 months at least and if you have any issues, you should book an appointment as soon as possible.
The friendly dental team at City Smiles Dental Melbourne goal is to help patients achieve their healthiest, happiest smile. We offer a range of treatments, from general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry.
Have a safe and fun filled holiday!
For further information or to book an appointment with one of our dentists, please click here.
