December can be the most wonderful time of the year. You get to spend time with your family and friends, relax at home or perhaps take a vacation, and of course enjoy delicious holiday treats. But - it can also be the time where the healthy routines you established earlier in the year can fall by the wayside. You may be attending lots of holiday parties and eating less healthy foods and enjoying a few too many drinks. You may be taking some much-needed time off work, which can impact your normal routine. As our gift to you - Dr. Peck wanted to share some helpful tips for staying on top of your oral health routine in December and beyond!
Keep Up Your Routine
Between travel, parties and events, and time off work, it’s easy for your normal routine to be thrown off during the holiday season. But it’s important to make sure your dental routine stays on track! Keep brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once, and using a cavity-prevention mouthwash. If you are traveling, make sure you double check your toiletry kit to make sure you have everything you need.
Make Healthy Choices
The holidays are full of not-so-good food choices, so make sure you are including healthier choices in your diet too. Keep trying to get your recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables, especially those crunchy, fibrous foods like apples, celery, carrots, kale, etc. that are good for your teeth!
Watch the Sugar
Sugar is everywhere during the holidays. From freshly-baked cookies to hot cocoa and candy canes - sugar (and potential cavities) are lurking on every table. Whenever you can, opt for lower-sugar or sugar-free treats, and make sure you are brushing your teeth as often as possible after enjoying sugary, sticky items.
Everything in Moderation
We get it - temptation is everywhere during the holidays. And we’re not saying you have to completely avoid everything delicious, but exercise moderation and use good judgment to enjoy your favorite things - responsibly. A glass of wine here and there or a few cookies are fine - just make sure you are enjoying - not over-indulging.
Most importantly, take the time to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones. Quality time is precious and we hope you have a joyful season with friends and family. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year to take care of all your dental needs!
