Tips for Tooth Health During the Holidays

Pumpkin pie. Pecan pie. Candy canes. Gravy-covered everything. 

These are just a few of the holiday foods many of us will enjoy this season. 

Unfortunately, all of these treats have the potential to cause tooth issues if you don’t take the necessary precautions. 

Let’s look at some easy ways to enjoy your favorite holiday foods without sacrificing your pearly whites. 

Leave the Walnuts to the Nutcracker

Walnuts, pecans, almonds and pistachios are some of the most popular (and most delicious) holiday nuts. 

However, you should never use your teeth to open their shells. Using your teeth to crack a walnut, for instance, can cause chipping and even hurt your gums. 

It’s better to invest in a nutcracker so you won’t be tempted to use your teeth. Nutcrackers do a better job of opening walnuts than your teeth and are a festive addition to any home’s holiday decor. It’s a win-win! 

Brush,  Brush, Brush 

Certain holiday foods have an oily or viscous texture that coats each and every tooth in your mouth. Gravy, cranberry sauce and even some stuffing recipes can be very hard to clean off your teeth. 

It’s important to brush vigilantly after every holiday meal. Extra flossing and mouth washing can also help break up the clingier food particles that stick to teeth after a rich meal. 

Drink More Water With Sticky Foods

There are a few holiday foods that can accelerate tooth decay. Specifically, sticky foods like dry fruit and pecan pie contain ingredients that cling to teeth, coating them in sugar and sinking into hidden crevices. 

As you increase your brushing and flossing routine this holiday season, you should also increase your water intake. 

Drinking water during a particularly sugary meal can help wash the excess sugar off of your teeth. 

Schedule a Visit With Your Dentist

If it’s the season of tooth issues for you, it might be time to schedule a check-up with a trustworthy dentist. 

Hintz & Oakley Family Dentistry can address any of your general dentistry issues this holiday season. 

And if you chip your tooth trying to crack a walnut, we can help you get your smile back to top shape. 

Contact us today to learn more about our range of dental services!