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The Christmas period is the time for letting loose a little – indulging in more sweet and desserts, drinking a little more alcohol than usual, and eating rich foods.
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However, all this, together with late nights and irregular brushing, can take its toll on your teeth. Here’s how to protect them during the holidays:
1. Keep sweet treats to a minimum: Try avoiding the traditional mince pies, chocolates and sugary desserts. Instead indulge in cheeses and protein-rich foods such as turkey and ham instead, which will curb your hunger and cravings.
2. No sugary treats in Christmas stockings: Rather than sugary, hard sweets, fill children’s stockings with small toys and even a musical toothbrush.
3. White, not red wine: Red wine does a good job of staining your teeth, so rather opt for white wine and add some ice and sparkling water.
4. Don’t use your teeth for anything other than eating: Opening bottles, breaking sticky tape and opening packets with your teeth can damage the enamel.
5. Never forget to brush: Routine is something that usually goes out the window during the holidays, but try to make sure to brush twice a day, and floss if you can.
References:
Five ways to look after your teeth this Christmas: Karen Coates; Monday, 17 Dec 2012; Oral Health Foundation: https://www.dentalhealth.org/blog/blogdetails/64
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