3 Ways to Stay Cavity Free During the Holidays

The holiday season is in full force and the closer we get to the big day, the more parties, gatherings and events we add to our calendars. There’s no denying that this time of the year is typically focused on good company and good food. We tend to indulge in sweet treats and sugary drinks on an abnormal schedule which increases our chances of tooth decay and gum disease. If you’re concerned about your teeth or just want to keep them in the best shape possible this month, consider these three simple tips:

1. Brush After You Eat
   While we can’t always carry a toothbrush everywhere we go, brushing after we eat is a crucial step in avoiding cavities. If you can’t brush after every snack or meal, don’t fret! Instead, make it a point to drink a glass of water to remove leftover food particles between teeth.
2. Balance Your Sweet Consumption
   There’s no reason to avoid homemade treats and sugary confections completely, just be more aware of when you consume them and how often. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, balance it out afterwards with a visit to the veggie tray or a handful of almonds from the cheese board.
3. Choose Your Sweets Wisely
   Not all sweet treats are created equally! Try to choose options that dissolve easily in your mouth. Avoid sticky goodies and ingredients that will hold acid against your teeth for prolonged periods of time. Go for gingerbread, simple treats like oatmeal cookies, anything made from a nut flour or dark chocolate desserts that are lower in sugar than their milk chocolate counterparts.

We all love special treats around the holidays! The key is moderation. It’s ok to indulge in a little something sweet and it’s also ok to say no to that second glass of eggnog or that next slice of pie. Keep these three simple tips in mind at your next social gathering, and your teeth will thank you for it!