The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, unfortunately for your teeth... an abundance of sugary treats. While we understand this is a time when we all indulge in festive treats, we have a few simple tips to keep your family's oral health in tip-top shape:

Practice Mindfulness

Holiday tables will likely be brimming with sugary treats, so mindful indulgences can be key. Rather than continuous snacking, encourage a habit of enjoying your special holiday treats alongside meals. This limits the exposure of teeth to sugars throughout the day.

Hydration is Key

Amidst the festivities, remember to stay extra hydrated. Water not only keeps your overall health in check but also helps rinse away food particles and sugars from your teeth. Make it a family tradition to drink water regularly, especially after consuming sweets.

Commit to Healthy Smile Rituals

Now more than ever, ensure that everyone brushes their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flosses daily. If you're traveling, pack travel-sized oral care essentials to ensure consistency in oral hygiene.

Tooth-Friendly Snacking

Include tooth-friendly snacks like crisp apples and raw vegetables when preparing holiday menus. These not only provide essential nutrients but also act as natural teeth cleaners, stimulating saliva production and helping to neutralize acids present in so many of the sugary treats.

Limit Acidic Drinks

Some drinks contain high levels of acids which attack your teeth enamel making them lose their essential minerals. Be especially mindful of acidic drinks like citrus drinks and sodas. Instead, try flavoring water with a festive combination of fresh fruits like blueberries, cranberries, and mint. 

Teach Children Good Oral Habits

If you have young children in your family, take the opportunity to teach them good holiday habits.  Teach them the benefits of brushing and flossing daily. Consider fun and festive dental products that can make oral care engaging for children during the holidays.

Explore Sugar-Free Alternatives

Today more than ever, there are so many sugar-free dessert recipes that are super easy, and many of them are even no-bake that can be made ahead of time. Embrace the abundance of healthy recipes that can be found with a simple search online.  A popular alternative, Xylitol, has the added benefit of inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause cavities, making it a tooth-friendly alternative to traditional sweets.

Keep Up with Your Dental Check-Ups

Prioritizing your family's oral health also means scheduling post-holiday dental check-ups.  Professional cleanings and a thorough examination can address any concerns and set the foundation for a cavity-free new year ahead.

By incorporating these simple tips and tricks, you'll be helping your family remain healthy and start the new year with confident and healthy smiles. From our family to yours, happy holidays!