Oral care during Christmas

It’s no secret that Christmas and New Year’s is a tough season for oral health. The intake of sugar skyrockets, and most people have other things in mind rather than oral hygiene. It’s simply inevitable – these holidays are all about getting together with your dearest ones and enjoying wholesome meals and delicious desserts.

Unfortunately, this is no good news for your pearly whites. So, here are some handy tips to prevent any dental issues during this special time of the year!

• Sweets? All at once

Cutting down on sweets and chocolates is always advisable and crucial to maintaining oral health. However, we understand that avoiding sugar during this particular week might not be a realistic goal. That’s why we offer the following advice, applicable during this time of the year and in any other important event of festivity: you can have as many sweets as you want, but try to have them all at once, and preferably after meals.

Why is this important? Well, as you may know, decay is produced by the bacteria present in dental plaque. These bacteria eat sugars and carbohydrates and transform them into acids, which affects the enamel structure after some time. The longer the teeth are exposed to the acids, the higher chances of dental decay development. So by eating all sweets simultaneously, although you don’t prevent acid formation, you do limit the time which is present in the oral cavity. In this way, you reduce the exposure of the enamel to the acids, keeping its structure safe and sound.

As mentioned before, it’s also vital to have sweet treats and desserts after meals. There are two important reasons for this: first, this helps you not to overindulge in them. And secondly, we produce more saliva during meals, which protects our teeth from the detrimental effect of sugars and some carbs.

• Drink water, use mouth wash!

This is no surprise – water is by far the healthiest drink. But what you might ignore is that water, among its many overall benefits, can also protect your smile. Hydration plays a crucial role in preventing dental plaque build-up: water washes away food particles and bacteria, helping prevent plaque accumulation. It is also the main component of saliva, which has many proteins and particles that neutralize the acids that cause cavities.

In addition, the use of mouthwash can also be important. Dessert can lead to rapid growth of bacteria in the mouth, followed by serious breath. You don’t want to feel embarrassed in such an important social occasion. Mouthwash can not only wash away food residues in the mouth, but also inhibit the growth of bacteria, so as to freshen the breath. Bring you closer to your family.

• Create new receipt for your meals

Why don’t you showcase your culinary skills and surprise your friends and family with healthier alternatives this Christmas? Healthy doesn’t necessarily mean dull – there are countless online recipes for low-carb dishes (and even low-sugar desserts!) that you can prepare with your loved ones. Many of these meals also include certain foods that protect your teeth, such as fish, fruits and veggies rich in fibre, nuts and whole grains. In this way, you’ll avoid a sugar rush and protect their smiles – all at the same time. Don’t be afraid to try new recipes; you’ll surprise them with tasty meals while looking after their oral and overall health!

We want each of you to enjoy all the festivities Christmas and NYE has to offer – just be sure to do it with moderation and remember to brush your teeth after every meal!

We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year!!