The holiday season is here, which means you’re probably licking your lips in anticipation of all the sweets, gifts, and time for relaxing. However, during all of this cheer and joy, there is also a heightened risk of dental problems. Whether it’s holiday stress, large amounts of sugar, or simply using your teeth improperly, without taking the proper precautions, you could end up visiting an emergency dentist. Keep reading to find out some pro tips on how to keep your smile happy and healthy during all the festivities.
Let the Nutcrackers Do the Cracking
Did you know that nuts are great for your teeth? They are a common holiday favorite that are also high in protein! However, cracking nuts with your teeth can lead to chipped or broken enamel. That’s why you should leave it to a professional—your favorite holiday nutcracker. Or, simply buy nuts without the shells.
Pass Up on Chewy Foods
It’s hard to get through the holidays without seeing platters full of candies and sweets. It’s okay to indulge every now and then, but you should especially avoid chewy or sticky treats like taffy, toffee, caramel, and more. These items can stay in contact with your smile for longer periods of time, putting you at higher risk of tooth decay and cavities.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
The holidays are a time of excitement and sometimes haste, but this is no excuse for putting your teeth at risk. Avoid opening packages with your smile, using your teeth as scissors, or even converting your pearly whites to a bottle opener. This can cause immense damage and pain to your smile, which is why you should only use your teeth for eating and speaking.
Avoid Chewing on Hard Candy or Ice Cubes
Some people have a bad habit of chewing on hard candy or even ice cubes. While these items are technically edible, you should avoid chewing on them because it can lead to cracked, fractured, or broken teeth—ouch!
Nail Biting is a Big No No
Anxiety and stress can peak for many people during the holiday season, which can lead to the nasty habit of nail biting. While your enamel is the strongest material in your body, it can still break, and your nails pose a risk for this problem. Try stress relievers like exercising, or you can even paint your nails with various polishes to curb yourself from biting.
Are you ready to keep your smile safe and healthy? Follow these tips to avoid needing emergency dental care during the holidays.
About the Practice
Dr. Steven Crovatto and Dr. Megan Edwards are a team of experienced dentists who have a passion for quality care. They want all their patients to stay healthy during the best time of year, which is why they’ve provided these pro tips for avoiding emergency. For any questions, they can be contacted through their website or by phone at (904) 272-0800.