The holidays are here–where has the year gone?–and with them come family, friends, and lots of party foods. With so much happening, it’s easy to let little things slide. Don’t let mouth care be one of those things! Here are some tips for keeping your mouth merry and bright for all those holiday photos and parties.
Brush and Floss: Remember to brush your teeth twice a day. This should take about two minutes each time. This is a great time to turn on one of your favorite holiday tunes and get in the holiday spirit! Be sure to brush the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. Floss once a day. This should take 2-3 minutes each time.
Eat Well: Make sure you fill your diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy, and lean proteins. These all provide essential nutrients that are vital for mouth health. If you cannot have dairy, be sure to include lots of calcium-rich alternatives, such as beans, dark leafy greens, and fortified orange juice.
Moderate Sweets: As you attend your holiday parties, you can eat some sweets–but be smart about it. Accompany all desserts and sweet dishes with a tall glass of water, to clean out your mouth. Make sure you aren’t grazing on sweet things–eat a treat or two, then be done for a while. Try chewing a piece of sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating to prepare your teeth for brushing.
For more information, call Gentle General Dentistry in Sevierville, TN, at 865-453-1001. Dr. Morton and our team look forward to making your smile shine this holiday season!
