Seasonal cookies, candies, and traditional meals with friends and family help mark special occasions as the year comes to a close. At Schumer Family Dental, our general dentists in Illinois would never dream of asking patients to sit these events out. Instead, let us give you some advice on caring for your teeth during the holiday season!
Keep Up With Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Now is not the time to slack on daily care and maintenance! If anything, you should be as diligent as possible when it comes to daily flossing and brushing. This can help ensure that any lingering food debris or bacteria is cleared from your teeth.
Drink More Water
While it may not always be practical to brush your teeth after every meal, try to get into the habit of rinsing your mouth with water between bites or thoroughly after meals. Rinsing with water between brushing sessions can help prevent harmful buildups from holiday sweets.
Avoid Chewy and Sticky Treats
Toffee, gummies, taffy, and caramel are some of the biggest offenders against a healthy smile because they are difficult to clean. Crowns or fillings may be damaged by these treats. Sweets like chocolate, which more easily melt away, are less likely to cause harm.
Use Proper Tools When Opening Gifts
Many people are tempted into using their teeth to open difficult wrappings over the holidays and end up booking an emergency appointment with a dentist in Illinois. We suggest taking an extra second to find a good pair of scissors instead!
Book a Checkup With Our Dentist in Illinois
Having your teeth professionally cleaned either before or after the holidays is a great way to help keep your smile healthy and looking its best. If you’re due for a dental appointment, call us today to begin planning a visit.