Winter Dental Care Tips for Healthy Teeth This Holiday Season

Dental problems can occur anytime, but during the colder months of the year, the risk of developing dental issues can increase. 

The cold temperature can cause teeth to expand and contract. They may become more sensitive, and you may be more vulnerable to oral infections. 

The holiday season can also keep you busy and distracted, and you might inadvertently set aside your oral hygiene practices. But no matter how hectic your schedule gets, don’t neglect your oral health. 

Keep your smile cavity-free during this time of year. Show off that confident smile, steer clear of toothaches or any dental issue, and welcome the new year in great health with the help of these tips.

1. Maintain Oral Hygiene Routine

   Whether you’re spending the holidays with relatives, traveling overseas, or staying at home, always remember your dental care routine. 

   Brush and floss daily, and be gentle. Avoid brushing or flossing too hard, as this can damage the enamel and gums. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush or consider using an electric toothbrush for a more effective clean. 

   Flossing is the perfect complement to brushing, as it gets rid of residue in areas that a toothbrush won’t access. If you’re traveling, pack your oral hygiene kit so it’s ready for use anytime, wherever you are.

2. Limit Snacking on Sweets

   Even when there’s a free and unlimited supply of sweets and desserts during the holiday season, resist the urge to snack the entire day. Limit your intake and, if possible, only reach for a small portion during meals. 

   The chewing motion stimulates salivary flow, and an adequate supply of saliva is crucial to prevent sticky deposits from lingering on teeth and along the gum line. 

   Snacking throughout the day can cause plaque to build up, increasing your risk of developing tartar and decay. You don’t have to say no to sweets, but watch your consumption and don’t forget your dental care routine.

3. Be Cautious of Sticky, Crunchy, and Hard Food

   Certain types of food can cause mouth injuries with just one wrong bite. Crunchy and hard foods can result in chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth. 

   Extremely chewy or sticky treats can be hard to remove and cling to teeth without proper brushing or flossing. Break down food into small chunks for easier chewing and digestion.

4. Refrain From Using Your Teeth as a Tool

   Teeth aren’t a substitute for scissors, bottle openers, or nutcrackers. Use appropriate tools to open packages, bottles, or nuts. 

   Using the teeth as a tool exposes them to potential damage, such as cuts or lesions. Severe damage can result in a dental emergency and keep you from taking part in the fun activities originally planned. 

5. Increase Water Intake and Limit Consumption of Acidic and Staining Beverages

   Drink water to help dislodge food deposits and keep the mouth moist, and limit the intake of beverages that can stain teeth, such as red wine. 

   Acidic and carbonated beverages can also be harmful to the mouth, especially when taken excessively. They can make teeth more vulnerable to erosion. You may use a straw to minimize direct contact with teeth.

   Hot chocolate, coffee, and tea are inevitable when the weather gets cold, and you don’t have to eliminate them from your routine, but drink water afterward or rinse the mouth with plain water to prevent the substances from settling on your teeth. 

6. Schedule Dental Checkups

   The tips listed above are applicable regardless of the season. Most importantly, include your annual dental checkups on your priority list during the holiday season. 

   We recommend getting your dental visit off your to-do list early, especially if you’re leaving for the holidays. Have any existing dental work checked, and gather recommendations from your dentist should an urgent dental issue arise while you’re away. 

   The end of the year can also be a busy period for dental practices, so consider booking early to secure a convenient schedule. 

Looking to See a Dentist in SE Calgary, AB?

If you’re looking for a dentist in SE Calgary, AB, for yourself or your family members, please reach out to us at Mckenzie Towne Family Dental. 

Our dental practice has been serving Mckenzie Towne and the surrounding communities since 2000, and we continue with our commitment to helping our neighbors maintain good oral health in a warm and supportive environment. Whether you’ve just moved to the area or need a second opinion, we’re happy to help. Let’s make dental care a positive experience, not only during the holiday season but throughout the year.