The holiday season is a time of togetherness and gratitude, but it can be pretty rough on your oral health. Between stress and the ubiquitous holiday dessert platters, your teeth are subjected to an increased risk of developing cavities, as well as threats in the form of periodontal disease and other consequences of poor oral hygiene. We can’t help you pick the perfect gift or make your travel plans, but we can certainly help you keep your smile in good health.
Beware the Effects of Stress on Teeth
Stress threatens your teeth for several reasons. This is especially true for anyone who grinds his teeth or clenches her jaw when the pressure mounts. Even if you do so for only a few seconds at a time, you create unhealthy friction and force that gradually wears down and weakens your teeth. For some people, coping with stress means heading to the vending machine or cookie jar instead of seeking out healthier snacks. This, too, can damage teeth.
Leave the Cookies for Santa
On its own, sugar is not actually the cause of tooth decay. That distinction actually goes to the bacteria that live in your mouth and use sugar as fuel. When they consume sugar, they produce acids that can damage tooth enamel. A month of non-stop snacking on sweets can do a real number on your teeth because these damages strip your teeth of their natural protection from tooth decay. Unless you want to ring in the new years with a white filling, think twice before loading up on sweets.
Have a Hygienic Holiday
We’re not saying that you can’t indulge in the occasional glass of eggnog, but we do encourage you to be diligent in your hygiene efforts. In additional to brushing twice daily and flossing daily, it is best to at least rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking throughout the day–unless you can actually brush or floss again, which is wonderful. We like single-use Colgate Wisps and disposable floss picks because they can be stashed in a purse, glove box, or desk drawer for easy access.
About Your Conroe General Dentist
The Dental Centre of Conroe, John M Richards DDS delivers distinctive cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry for residents of Conroe, Houston, The Woodlands, Willis, Huntsville, and the neighboring communities. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling (936) 441-4600.
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