Amidst the fun parties and priceless family time during the holidays, there’s a plethora of delicious treats and drinks. However, many of them counteract your family’s dental care efforts and may affect your smiles. To help you enjoy the season with your kids without compromising your oral health, keep some advice in mind as you celebrate. 

How to Keep Smiles Healthy This Holiday Season

1. Eat Thoughtfully

Dental care starts with mindful eating. During the holidays, it's tempting to indulge in sugary snacks and drinks. However, excessive consumption of sweets can lead to tooth decay. Encourage your children to choose healthier alternatives like fruits and vegetables. 

Limit their intake of candies and sticky treats, as these can cling to teeth and promote cavities. By practicing mindful eating, you can protect your family's oral health and prevent unnecessary trips to the dentist.

2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

While it's easy to get caught up in the holiday rush, it's crucial to prioritize regular oral hygiene routines. Make sure your children brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Supervise their brushing to ensure they are using proper technique and using a fluoride toothpaste. 

Regular flossing is also essential to remove food particles stuck between teeth. By maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you can prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is not only essential for overall health but also for dental care. During the holiday season, encourage your children to stay hydrated by drinking water instead of sugary drinks. 

Water helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay. Additionally, staying hydrated promotes saliva production, which is crucial for maintaining oral health. So, keep a water bottle handy and encourage your children to sip water throughout the day.

4. Give a Few Tooth-Friendly Gifts

When it comes to holiday gifts, why not choose something that promotes dental care? Consider giving your children tooth-friendly gifts such as sugar-free chewing gum or a new toothbrush featuring their favorite cartoon character. 

These gifts not only make dental care fun but also encourage good oral hygiene habits. By incorporating tooth-friendly gifts into your holiday traditions, you can reinforce the importance of dental care and show your children that oral health can be enjoyable.

Healthy smiles make the holidays better, which is why you and your family should get proper dental care from Carolyn B. Crowell, DMD, & Associates. Located in Avon, OH, Dr. Cromwell is passionate about providing a pleasant experience for children and their parents every time they visit her office. She’s happy to help with everything from routine cleanings to oral surgeries. For a full overview of her services, call her office today at (440) 934-0149 or send a message online.