The holidays can be a busy and exciting time, but can be hard on your dental health! Here are some tips for keeping your mouth and smile happy, while being in the holiday spirit.

  1. Dental Friendly Stocking Stuffers
    On average, The National Confectioners Association says 77% of people who open their stocking on Christmas morning find candy in their holiday gifts. This year, give out chocolate instead of gummy candy or toffee.  Chocolate washes off teeth easier than something like a candy cane.  Include other items like sugar free free gum, new toothbrushes or favorite toothpaste. 
  2. Carol While You Clean
    Brushing your teeth for a full two minutes twice a day is a great way to make sure your smile and mouth are clean.  To make sure you are brushing for the entire time, create a playlist of fun music that you enjoy and time yourself to.  This time of year, include carols or favorite holiday songs. 
  3. Don’t Open Presents With Your Teeth
    Bows, paper and tape make for beautiful gifts this time of year, but don’t use your teeth to see what is inside!  There is a possibility of hurting your jaw, cracking a tooth or swallowing something that you shouldn’t.  Be prepared with a pair of scissors for tricky wrapping paper, or packaging.
  4.  Hospitality With A Smile
    Full house of out of town guests and family this year? Include a small basket of necessities for your guests.  Include fun socks, favorite late night snack, and of course travel sized toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste. 
  5. Dreaming Of A White Smile
    Want to make sure your smile is white for those holiday photos? A quick way of making your teeth look instantly whiter is choosing a red or pink lipstick with a blue undertone.
  6. Dreaming Of A White Smile
    Make sure with all the rush of the holidays doesn’t get in the way of your dental routine.  If you have a regular dental visit scheduled, keep it.  Remember to brush twice a day and floss between teeth too.  

 

Adapted from the ADA