The holiday season is full of cheer and spending time with the ones you love, but most of all, the holidays are filled with a plethora of delicious treats. From cookies and candy to eggnog and hot cocoa, there is no shortage of sugary morsels this time of year, and if you’re not careful, your teeth may not enjoy all of the treats as much as your stomach does. It’s hard to deny every dessert you are offered, so in part one of this two-part series, we will give you a few tips to help keep your teeth healthy and clean as you enjoy your favorite holiday snacks.

If you’re worried about keeping your teeth healthy this holiday season, or you want to ensure that your smile is pearly white for your Christmas cards, Clean Smile Dental in Lancaster is here to help! We are proud to serve as your neighborhood family dentist, and we are more than happy to help everyone in your home! We offer both adult and children’s dentistry and we will do everything we can to ensure that you are comfortable with our methods. Stop by to see us at our office or give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
 

Chew cinnamon gum

Chewing gum may seem like an odd tip for keeping your teeth healthy, but there is a reason that we recommend cinnamon gum instead of the typical minty flavors. Cinnamon gum contains an ingredient called cinnamaldehyde. This key ingredient is used to give your gum that spicy flavor that is usually hit or miss for most people. In addition to giving cinnamon gum its flavor, cinnamaldehyde can also prevent cavities by destroying cavity-causing bacteria.
 

Avoid using your teeth to open presents

We’ve all had those moments where you find yourself in a situation where there is a cap that is too tight or a piece of plastic that you can’t quite grip with your fingers. Instead of reaching for a more useful tool, many people choose to use their teeth. Not only can using your teeth to open packaging weaken the enamel on your teeth, but it can also lead to cracks or chips if you’re not careful. As you and your family are gathered around the tree this holiday season, instead of using your teeth to pry open your new toys, electronics, and appliances, try to avoid using your teeth and reach for a pair of scissors or pliers instead.
 

Stick to your oral hygiene routine

Brushing your teeth and flossing may not be your favorite thing to do during the holidays, but it’s necessary if you wish to keep your teeth healthy and avoid any costly dental fees. Try to stick to your oral hygiene routine by brushing and flossing twice a day. It may be difficult, especially if you come home late from a holiday party and just want to go to bed, but your teeth and your dentist will thank you.
 

SCHEDULE YOUR CHECK UP TODAY!

It’s always a good idea to see your dentist twice a year to ensure that your teeth are healthy and clean. This holiday season, don’t wait until the last minute to visit your neighborhood family dentist. Whether you’re a loyal patient or a new patient, Clean Smile Dental is always here to help. Learn more about our adult and children’s dentistry practice and give us a call to schedule your cleaning today!