The holiday season is a lot of fun, but it could be a real problem for your teeth. Too many items high in sugar and starch could lead to the onset of tooth decay in the weeks and months following the holidays. To keep your smile safe, you need to take proper care of your smile! In today’s blog, your Woodland Hills, CA, dentist offers a few helpful tips.
How Your Holiday Favorites Could Cause Tooth Decay
Often, our favorite dishes around this time of year are high in starch, and there are plenty of desserts and holiday drinks that have high amounts of sugar in them. When we consume foods and drinks high in sugar and starch, this allows particles from them to cling to the teeth. Harmful oral bacteria will then break them down, a process that not only elevates oral acidity, but also coats the teeth in harmful layers of plaque buildup. Over time, plaque could increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, putting your smile at risk. Which is why we suggest enjoying these foods in moderation, and drinking a glass of water with them to rinse the smile. You can also balance your plate with fresh fruit and vegetables too!
Better Care at Home
Good homecare is also essential! Even when you’re out of town on your holiday break, you should take time to brush your teeth for two minutes when you wake up and then do so again before bed. Each session should take two minutes and use a fluoride toothpaste, which helps strengthen the outer enamel. You also need to floss each evening too, as this reaches and removes the bits of food beyond the reach of a toothbrush.
The Exam and Cleaning Process
If you haven’t yet, we suggest scheduling your last checkup and cleaning of 2021 now. The procedure is a chance for our team to look for possible signs of trouble and address them before the year comes to a close. We also clean the teeth, removing these harmful layers of plaque and tartar that could cause cavities or gum disease. If you schedule a visit now, there is still time to use your remaining 2021 dental insurance benefits or health savings account funds before they expire at midnight on December 31st. If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule a visit for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today to learn more.
Talk To Your Woodland Hills, CA Dentist About Fighting Cavities
If you want to help protect your smile from cavities and infections, then be sure you take proper care of your smile. If you have more questions about safeguarding your smiles during your holiday celebrations, then contact your Woodland Hills, CA, dentist’s office by calling 818-347-5124.