The holiday season is a time for celebration, and, let’s be honest, a lot of sugary treats. From candy canes and chocolates to festive cookies and pies, sweet things seem to appear everywhere you turn.
While enjoying your favorite holiday goodies is part of the fun, too much sugar can take a toll on your teeth. In fact, numerous studies have proven that sugar consumption is the most significant cause of dental caries and their progression.
At the office of Kathryn Jodry, DDS, we help patients protect their smiles year-round. Here, we explain how you can enjoy the festive season without risking your teeth.
Whenever you eat something sugary, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the energy-rich sugars and create acids. These acids attack your enamel — the protective outer layer of your teeth. Over time, repeated acid attacks may lead to cavities, sensitivity, and other oral health issues.
You don’t have to avoid sweets altogether. However, staying aware of how often you snack on sugary foods and how you care for your teeth afterward can make a significant difference.
Some holiday treats are harder on your teeth than others. Sticky candies like caramels and gummies cling to your enamel, prolonging the time sugar stays on your teeth. Hard candies, like candy canes, dissolve slowly, which allows acids to form for an extended period. Even dried fruits contain concentrated natural sugars that stick to teeth.
If you want something sweet but tooth-friendlier, choose:
You can still indulge in your favorites, but being selective helps keep your smile healthier.
Constant snacking exposes your teeth to repeated acid attacks. Instead, try to enjoy treats during meals, when your mouth produces more saliva. Saliva helps rinse away food particles from your teeth, neutralize acids, and protect your enamel.
If you want a cookie or a slice of pie, pair it with your lunch or dinner instead of eating it alone. This small change can significantly reduce your risk of cavities.
Good oral hygiene plays a big role in keeping your teeth healthy during sugar-heavy seasons. After eating sweet things, rinse your mouth with water to wash away leftover sugar and acids. If you’re at home, brushing your teeth 30 minutes after eating is even better.
Why wait 30 minutes? Because acids soften your enamel temporarily. Brushing too soon can actually spread the acids around. Waiting allows your enamel to harden again before brushing removes harmful plaque.
Holiday parties often include drinks like soda, punch, sparkling wine, or hot cider. These beverages contain sugar and acids that weaken enamel. Drinking water between sips helps dilute the acids and keeps your mouth cleaner.
If you prefer sparkling water, choose plain over flavored because many flavored varieties contain added acids that can erode your teeth over time.
The holidays often bring late dinners, parties, and nighttime movie marathons with snacks. But eating sugary foods right before bed increases your risk of cavities because your mouth produces less saliva while you sleep.
Try to brush and floss before settling down for the night, even when you’re tired. A few minutes of care can prevent weeks or months of dental problems.
Busy schedules make you more likely to skip your routine, but keeping your mouth clean is one of the best ways to prevent cavities.
Brush twice a day for two minutes each time and floss daily to remove plaque your toothbrush can’t reach. Using a fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and offers an extra layer of protection.
If you wear aligners, dentures, or other dental appliances, clean them thoroughly every day to reduce bacteria buildup.
The end of the year is a great time to visit us for a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar that brushing can’t eliminate. We can also check for early signs of cavities or gum disease before they worsen.
The holidays should be enjoyable, not stressful for your teeth. By choosing sweets wisely, practicing good oral hygiene, and staying mindful of your habits, you can protect your smile while enjoying some of your favorite seasonal treats.
If you’re due for a checkup or want personalized advice, the team at Kathryn Jodry, DDS, is here to help you start the new year with a healthy, bright smile. Call the office or use the online form to get in touch.
