With the holidays come family, friends, and lots of good food. It’s easy to get caught up in the celebrations, but be sure to keep up with basic dental habits! Here are some things to remember as you care for your teeth during the upcoming holiday season.
Basic hygiene: Make sure you brush your teeth for 2 minutes, 2 times a day. Just remember “2 by 2” and you’ll have it down. Brush the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. Use a long piece of single-filament floss to clean between your teeth every day; this should take 2-3 minutes each time. If you choose to incorporate mouthwash into your dental hygiene routine, select an ADA-approved therapeutic mouthwash, rather than merely a cosmetic one.
Toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months, or sooner if they become contaminated.
Chew Gum: After eating and drinking, your teeth are more easily damaged by abrasion. This means it’s a bad idea to brush right after eating. To get your mouth clean as soon as possible, chew a piece of sugar-free gum. This will stimulate saliva flow and get your teeth ready for brushing.
Be Mindful of Sweets: When eating sweets, eat a treat or three, then be done for a while. Don’t keep snacking on sugary and starchy foods. Drink lots of water to help wash away sugars and acids, and chew gum to help clean teeth before brushing.
Visit Your Dentist: If you haven’t in the last few months, please visit your dentist as soon as possible! You don’t want cavities and other dental emergencies intruding on your holiday plans. To schedule an appointment in Austin, Texas, call Diamond Dental Family and Implant Dentistry at 512-351-9313 today! Dr. Tom Supakorndej and our team will be happy to help you.