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Winter is around the corner, and so are the holidays. Along with the holidays come extended holiday parties, late-night snacking, and indulgent foods. If you are the host, then you’re already under a pile of preparations. In between this, you tend to ignore your teeth.

Rinse With Water After Meals

When you do eat sugary foods, rinsing your mouth afterward can help eliminate some of the bacteria and food particles that can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Carry a travel-sized toothbrush with you when visiting friends or family during the holiday season so you can quickly clean your teeth after eating sugar-laden foods.

Drink Water Regularly

Dry winter air can leave your throat, sinuses, and mouth feeling parched. However, drinking water can also help keep the bacteria that cause cavities at bay. A dry mouth contains acid-producing bacteria that can erode tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. So make sure to drink plenty of tap water during your holiday parties to help prevent decay!

Did you know? Water is an important part of your dental hygiene routine. Drinking water can keep your gums hydrated and wash away the bacteria that can cause plaque buildup and gum disease. Plus, it can help rinse away food particles from your teeth after eating a meal or snack. If you don’t have time to brush your teeth after a meal, rinsing your mouth with water will help remove leftover debris and keep your teeth clean.

If you are planning on drinking alcohol this holiday season, remember to avoid brushing your teeth for at least one hour afterward. Alcohol can dry out your mouth and weaken your tooth enamel, so it is best to wait before brushing to give your teeth time to recover. It is also best to consume acidic foods and beverages in moderation. Acidic foods and drinks can harm tooth enamel over time by stripping away the minerals that protect your teeth. 

Brush and Floss Your Teeth Everyday

If you’re going to be eating lots of sugary food and drinks during the holidays, then it’s important to brush your teeth after every meal. This will help prevent tooth decay and cavities, as well as keep your breath fresh and clean. If toothbrushing isn’t an option after eating due to time constraints or location, then try to rinse your mouth out with water or mouthwash.

It’s also helpful to carry a pack of travel-size toothpaste and a toothbrush with you wherever you go so that you can brush on the go if you need to. Just make sure to still bring your normal oral hygiene equipment with you too. That way, you’ll have all your bases covered!

When flossing, make sure to also clean the gum line to remove food particles, and debris stuck between the teeth. Make this a part of your daily dental hygiene routine, and visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste can help protect your smile from cavities. To maximize protection from fluoride, wait at least 30 minutes after consuming any food or beverage before brushing. This allows your mouth to rinse off the sugar you’ve consumed before it has a chance to cause decay. 

Avoid Sugary Drinks

Sugary drinks like soda, sweet tea, and juice are loaded with sugar that can feed bacteria and cause plaque buildup. You can still enjoy these beverages occasionally but make sure to drink plenty of water to rinse away food and bacteria from your teeth.

Get in touch with Willow Glen Dental Care at 1600 Willow St, Suite 203, San Jose, CA 95125, or call (408) 978-0911 to learn more about dental services. Make an appointment today so we can make sure your smile is ready for all the holiday festivities!