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It is the season to be jolly, and for many of us, this means that we will indulge in mostly sugary treats. Eating and drinking loads of sticky, sweet snacks do not only affect our weight and overall health, but it can cause damage to teeth – irreparable damage if we aren’t careful! 

It is easier to let go of all routines during the holidays, but here are some dental care tips so that you still end 2020 with a sparkling smile.

Tips for taking care of your teeth over the festive season

It is expected that our sugar intake is much more during this period, not only because of the sweet foods we eat, but also alcohol consumption. Yes, most alcoholic beverages and chasers are filled with added sugar! Below, find tips from dentists on how not only to take care of your teeth but also what to do in case of a dental emergency. 

What to watch out for

It is not only the amount of sugar you consume that can cause damage but also how long it remains in your mouth. Establish a routine of rinsing your mouth with mouthwash after every sugary treat. An example of a sweet that has a long ‘hang time’ is a lollipop

Lollipops are delicious and come with a convenient stick for easy, mess-free manoeuvring – but we tend to keep them chipmunked in the cheek for way longer than is safe for our teeth. 

Boiled sweets are another danger, especially when chewed. The impact can chip your teeth, and this causes plaque to reach your nerve. This will not only cause pain and discomfort in your mouth but will also require immediate treatment. Also, the shards from the glasslike treat could penetrate the gum, which could lead to an infection.

Sour sweets are very high in acid levels, and this leads to tooth decay.

Toffees and sodas

Dentists recommend that you use a drinking straw when you’re having sugary drinks. This helps keep it away from your teeth. 

Toffees tend to stick to your gums and in the grooves of your teeth. It can be challenging to clear the mouth of toffee, and as it sticks, it feeds the bacteria in your mouth. 

What to do?

Arrange for a pre-holiday dentist check-up and cleaning of your teeth.

During festive times, Smile Concepts Dentistry suggests that you should try and brush your teeth three times a day! Don’t forget to floss or use interdental brushes at least once a day too. Make sure you have a brand new toothbrush – you should replace your toothbrush every few months.

Make sure you stick to your regular dental routine, brushing, rinsing and flossing, preferably after every meal.

Have your desserts close to your meal times as the saliva will clean the sugar from your teeth. Chew on sugar-free gum.

If possible, try to snack on healthy options like fruit and nuts.

Increasing your water intake is not only good for your overall health but also your teeth. So try to have a tall glass of water before or after each meal and snack.

Although this is a joyous season, it also happens to be stressful for most people. Most people tend to grind their teeth, especially in their sleep owing to stress. If you find yourself in such a situation, ask your dentist to give you a night guard to help with teeth grinding during the evening.

Although we are more relaxed with the children’s eating habits during this time, try to give them treats after mealtimes and encourage them to snack on dairy products as this is a buffer to the acids found in sugary snacks.

For Toothache

If you have swelling, apply a cold compress on your mouth. If you have any trapped food, use dental floss to remove the food. Take a painkiller, not an aspirin, to minimise the pain and see a dentist as soon as you can.

Broken Teeth

Try to save any pieces, if possible. Rinse your mouth with warm, not hot water. If there is any bleeding, apply gauze and bite on it for 10-15 minutes, to keep your mouth from swelling and relieving some pain, apply a cold compress.

Got your teeth knocked out?

Put your tooth back into its place, but do not force it into the socket. Make sure you place it in the exact position it was.

If you are unable to do so, place your tooth in milk and see a dentist within one hour, then your tooth might have a chance of being saved.

Losing a crown

Use a bit of Vaseline to stick your crown back or take it to the dentist, as the same crown can be cemented again.

How to find a dentist

Ask the pharmacist closest to your holiday accommodation, alternatively, google a dentist who is available in the town.

The festive season is a time to enjoy with our family and friends. Heed the above tips  so that you may share your beautiful smile right into the New Year.