With the holidays in full swing, we are busier than normal. Decorating, shopping, and holiday parties keep us so busy that it’s easy for things to fall to the wayside. One thing that can easily be forgotten but needs to keep in check is our dental health. We are surrounded by foods that aren’t exactly the best for us, so it’s easy for things to go awry. While we all want to enjoy these things, it’s also a good idea to take extra good care of your oral health these holidays. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your dental health stays intact as you enjoy all the tasty treats:

Take note of the sugar. There are so many traditions involving sugary foods during this time of year that it’s easy to lose track of our intake. Keep things in moderation and make sure to brush and floss afterward to keep cavity-forming bacteria at bay.

Keep your routine. It’s important to remember to brush and floss your teeth, even when there is fun to be had. Your little humans may put up a fight, but it will definitely be worth it in the long run.

Enjoy yourself. Holiday foods, like cranberries and cheese, are actually good for your teeth so enjoy yourself. But keep in mind, overindulging can have negative consequences. Cranberries contain a lot of acids that can eat away at your teeth so don’t overdo it.

Use your teeth as teeth. Using your teeth for opening bottles or opening packages is never a good idea. Not only will you damage your teeth, but you can actually pull whole teeth outright by the root using them as bottle openers or scissors. Use a bottle opener.

Moderation is key. It’s been mentioned before but is worth a final note. No matter the time of year, moderation in what you eat and drink, along with a good dental routine, can have a good effect on your teeth and gums.

Once the holidays are done, make yourself an appointment to see your dentist. It’s a good idea to have your smile checked to make sure your holiday plans didn’t cause any issues.

If you would like further information regarding dental tips during the holidays, contact Tory Hill Dental at 207-929-6626 to schedule an appointment today. Or visit toryhilldental.com for additional information.