When the holiday season arrives, this could mean a lot of sugary foods and drinks, and plenty of dishes high in starch. These items may be delicious, but they could increase the risk of tooth decay! In today’s blog, your Lake Orion, MI, dentist talks about how we safeguard your smile in the holiday season and in the year to come!
The Impact of Sugar and Starch
When we eat foods with a lot of sugar and starch, or drink beverages high in sugar, this can leave behind particles trapped on or between our teeth. As harmful oral bacteria consume these particles, this leads to an increase in oral acidity and coats the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque buildup. Over time, this weakens and erodes enamel to cause cavities, and could irritate and inflame gums to cause gingivitis and even gum disease. We want to help your smile stay strong during the holidays and beyond. First, enjoy your sugary treats in moderation, and drink water with your meal to help rinse away the particles of sugar and starch. Add fresh fruits and veggies to your plate, as items like broccoli, apples, and carrots could help scrub away buildup and food particles. When your meal is over, excuse yourself to floss and remove trapped food and drink particles!
Checkups and Cleanings
There are still a few days left to schedule a visit for your last checkup and cleaning of 2024! We can examine your smile and may be able to offer treatment before the holidays are here. We will also clean the teeth to remove harmful plaque and tartar, so your smile is brighter and healthier before your big holiday events. This can help you greet 2025 with a strong and beautiful smile. You also have a chance to use your remaining 2024 dental insurance benefits or health savings account funds before they expire at the end of the month.
Improving Care at Home
We also want you to start taking better care of your smile at home. Don’t wait for the new year, start now! You should begin each day by brushing for two minutes when you wake up, and then do so again before going to bed. You also need to floss every evening, and cut back on the sugar and starch in your diet too. If you have any questions about staying free of cavities during the holidays and in the year to come, then contact our team today.
Talk to Your Lake Orion, MI Dentist’s Office About General Dentistry
Our team wants to help you and your loved ones enjoy good oral health. To schedule an appointment for the last checkup of 2024, then call Lake Orion Family Dentistry at (248)693-6213!
