Here we are!
The last couple weeks of every year means you’ll be swept up in the holiday fun, celebrating with family and friends and creating special memories with your loved ones.
Your friends at R. R. Williams, DDS can’t wait to hear all about it when we see you again at your next dental cleaning and exam!
In the meantime, we’re here to offer some tips on keeping your smile merry and bright as we face the final stretch of festivities.
‘Tis The Season To Protect Your Teeth
Here are a few pointers from your North Richland Hills dentist that will help you protect your healthy smile in the final days of the holiday season:
*Keep Your Teeth Clean*
We know that most people are going to eat a little differently this time of year, and that will mean taking in more sugar than you normally do.
That’s okay!
We just want to remind you that during the holidays, it’s more important than ever to stick to your daily oral hygiene routine and to practice moderation when you’re eating or drinking anything with high sugar content.
Nothing attracts harmful oral bacteria and all the dental problems it can cause quite like sugar in your mouth. Don’t give bacteria the satisfaction!
So be sure you don’t neglect your teeth and gums because a clean mouth is a healthier mouth.
*Limit Teeth-Staining Sweets & Treats*
It’s not just the added sugar in our diets that makes this time of year a bit problematic for your smile.
It’s also about eating and drinking dark or brightly-colored foods and beverages that contain pigments that stick to your teeth and leave stains behind.
Again, nothing is wrong with that in moderation. A cup of hot cocoa with your pecan pie or a glass of red wine with your holiday dinner probably isn’t going to result in any long-term cosmetic dental problems.
But it will help you avoid teeth stains if you’re more aware of the colors of your food and drinks and you rinse your mouth out with water when you choose to enjoy those things.
*Fill Up On Healthy Foods First*
As we’ve said, consuming more sugar during the holidays than you would most other times of the year is totally normal and fine if you practice moderation.
But how in the world can you be expected to resist going crazy with all the sweet temptations of the season?
You can start by remembering that cookies, pies, and candied cakes are best reserved for an after-dinner treat. In other words, filling up on healthy foods first will make it much easier to limit your sugar intake.
If you were to skimp on the main meal and head right for the dessert table, you’re likely to overindulge on the stuff that’s bad for your teeth.
Call For An Appointment!
It’s a stressful time of year simply because of all the preparation needed to celebrate the holidays. But it’s also incredibly fun, in spite of the hustle and bustle.
Just be sure that while you’re entertaining and attending your special gatherings, you’re still being mindful of your dental health and how to keep your smile safe from the delicious temptations of the season!
We look forward to seeing you in the new year! Call R.R. Williams DDS today at 817-281-4801 or fill out our online form to schedule your next dental appointment in North Richland Hills, TX.