How to look after your teeth this Christmas?

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It’s December, meaning Christmas is officially here. People are putting their Christmas decorations up, buying presents and spending time with friends and family.

If you have been in any supermarket or coffee shop over the past few weeks, you will be aware of all of the tempting treats that are associated with this time of year.

Christmas is a time for overindulging. However, your teeth, as well as your waistline, can suffer from the effects of this overindulging. We have put this guide together to make you aware of the danger your teeth can be put in this Christmas.

Don’t use your teeth as a tool

Every year, we see many patients damage their teeth from using their teeth to open bottles, tear sellotape, break off tags and even crack open nut shells. Your teeth are not designed to be used in this way and can chip, crack and break. Your existing dental work such as fillings, veneers and crowns can even become damaged.

Avoid the prosecco

Over recent years, prosecco has become a very popular tipple. If you are a fan of the bubbly, you could be putting yourself at risk of developing a condition that experts are calling the ‘prosecco smile’. Prosecco is high in both acidity and sugar – a nightmare for your teeth. Adding ice to your drink and drinking through a straw can reduce the damage to your teeth.

Reduce your snacking

You are likely to snack much more during Christmas time than you would at any other time of year. Mince pies, chocolates, sweets and biscuits are just some of the popular festive treats that you may be tempted by. It is important to try and keep your grazing to a minimum. It may seem sensible to spread your snacks throughout the day, but this is actually worse for your teeth.

Keep up your routine

Staying with family, late night parties and suffering with hangovers can make it difficult to keep up your usual oral hygiene routine. However, with all of the overindulging that Christmas brings, it is extremely important to do what you can to protect your teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day, using mouthwash and flossing daily will protect your teeth from decay.

Get the cheeseboard ready

Christmas just wouldn’t be complete without a cheeseboard. Finishing a meal on a cheeseboard is a great idea for your teeth. Not only is it tasty, but it will neutralise the acidity level in your mouth which will protect your teeth from cavities.

Chewing sugar-free gum is also a great way to protect your teeth from any acids that remain in your mouth after a meal.

If you would like more advice on looking after your teeth over Christmas, or would like to book an appointment with us, call The Dentist at Liberty Place on 0121 633 9535.