The holidays are here. That means parties, family gatherings, and more food than any of us should probably eat in one month. It’s a wonderful time of year, but it’s also a season that can do a number on your teeth. Between the sweets, the cocktails, and the chaos of travel and packed schedules, your oral health can slip down the priority list, and dental emergencies are more likely. At Revival Dental, we’d rather you enjoy yourself while still protecting your smile.
The Sweet Stuff: Enjoy It, Don’t Graze On It
We’re not going to tell you to skip dessert. That would be unrealistic, and frankly, a little rude to whoever made the pralines.
But there’s a difference between enjoying a treat and snacking on sweets all day long. Every time you eat sugar, the bacteria in your mouth produce acid that attacks your enamel. The attack lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.
If you’re going to have dessert, have it with a meal. Saliva production increases when you eat, which helps neutralize acid. One slice of pie with dinner is far kinder to your teeth than nibbling on cookies every hour from noon to midnight.
Watch the Sticky Stuff
Some sweets are tougher on teeth than others. Sticky candies like caramels, taffy, and dried fruit cling to your teeth and stay there. The longer sugar sits on your enamel, the more time acid has to do damage.
Hard candies have their own risks too. Beyond the sugar, biting down on something hard can chip a tooth, and a holiday toothache is no fun.
If you’re going to indulge, chocolate is actually one of the better choices. It washes off your teeth more easily than sticky sweets. Dark chocolate has less sugar too.
Beware the Seasonal Drinks
Holiday cocktails, spiced cider, and hot chocolate are all part of the fun. But sugary and acidic drinks are tough on enamel, especially when you sip them slowly over a couple of hours. You can still enjoy your drinks if you:
- Use a straw when you can.
- Rinse with water between drinks.
- Alternate alcoholic or sugary beverages with plain water.
- Stay hydrated to keep saliva flowing, which protects your teeth.
We know a lot of people who chew on ice or crunch on hard candy at the bottom of their glass. Please don’t. That’s a fast way to damage a tooth.
Don’t Skip the Basics
December gets busy. We get it. But your brushing and flossing routine matters even more when you’re eating more sugar than usual.
Keep brushing twice a day. Keep flossing once a day. It takes less than five minutes total, and it’s the best way to prevent a holiday dental emergency.
If you’re traveling, pack a travel toothbrush. A quick brush after a party can make a real difference, especially if you’re heading to bed after a late night of celebrating.
Travel Tips for Your Teeth
Visiting family out of town? A few small things can prevent big problems.
- Pack your toothbrush in a case so it doesn’t pick up bacteria in your bag.
- Bring floss.
- If you wear a night guard or clear aligners, don’t leave them behind, and never wrap them in a napkin at a restaurant. That’s how people accidentally throw them away.
- If you’re traveling somewhere with hard water or unfamiliar water, don’t worry. Just keep up your normal routine.
Don’t Put Off Pain
The holidays are exactly when people try to tough it out and wait until January to deal with a toothache. We understand the temptation. But ignoring dental pain rarely works out well.
If something hurts, call us. A small problem is easier to fix than a big one. And if you’re ever dealing with swelling, a fever, or trouble breathing or swallowing, seek care right away; those are signs that need immediate attention.
Enjoy the Season
We want you to have a wonderful holiday. Eat the king cake. Celebrate with your people. Just be a little mindful along the way, and your smile will thank you in January.
Dr. Neumeyer and our team welcome patients from Metairie, New Orleans, and throughout the surrounding area. If you need us during the season, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call our office at (504) 264-6013 or request an appointment online.