The holidays are a time of indulgence and partying. With all the seasonal sweets and treats that show up at home, at work, and especially at parties, the sugar intake this time of year can take a toll on your dental health. However, there are some easy steps you can take to maintain oral health in Jacksonville while still enjoying the season’s festivities. Keep reading to learn some healthy on-the-go holiday party tips from a trusted dentist.
Tip #1: Try Sugar-Free
Whenever available, try to reach for sugar-free snacks. If they aren’t available, this holiday season could be your chance to start the sugar-free baking trend. There are many substitutes, like xylitol, that can be used instead. And, the best part is, your goodies will taste delicious without causing cavities and decay.
Tip #2: Beeline to the Snack Tray
Surprisingly, your dentist wants you to head for the snack tray right away at your next holiday function. Eating cheese before drinking wine or other teeth-staining beverages can give you an extra layer of protection. Cheese leaves a waxy coat on your teeth that can prevent staining from happening. However, you should still brush your teeth at the end of the night to clean away plaque and bacteria.
Additionally, crunchy veggies can stimulate your saliva flow. Saliva naturally washes away foods that stain, bacteria, plaque, and other debris to keep your mouth clear.
Tip #3: Routinely Rinse Your Mouth
Rinsing your mouth, even with plain water after a glass of wine or a meal washes away sugar and debris that gets stuck on and in between your teeth. So, during your next party, try to slip away to the bathroom periodically throughout the night to protect your teeth from staining and cavities.
Tip #4: Visit Your Dentist
Once your schedule has cleared up and the holiday chaos dies down, get in to see your dentist in Jacksonville for a regular checkup and cleaning. This is the best way to prevent and detect early signs of dental issues like cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and more.
You may also want to ask your dentist about whitening treatment. Foods and drinks with rich and dark colors like holiday punches, wine, cranberries, and more can stain your teeth. Thankfully, your dentist offers professional whitening that can give you a smile that’s up to 10 shades whiter in one quick and easy visit.
Now that you know how to maintain good oral health at parties, are you ready for the holiday season? Use the tips above to take care of your teeth while still having fun!
About the Practice
Dr. Rose Johnson and Dr. Wayne Barker are a team of dentists who take pride in providing the best oral healthcare. They believe in patient education, which is why they want you to know how to get through the holidays with a healthy smile. They currently practice at Jacksonville Complete Dentistry, and they can be contacted through their website or by phone at (704) 645-6457 for any questions.