Holly, Jolly, and Healthy: Why the Holidays Are Terrible for Teeth

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Unless you happen to be a set of pearly whites—then you might be in for a bumpy ride. While you’re at family gatherings full of festive cheer and indulgent food, it’s important to be mindful of how merrily you party. Your dental health could be in the balance!

If you want proof that the holidays are especially hard on your teeth, continue reading. You’ll find the true inhabitants of the season’s naughty list.

An Abundance of Sugar

Cakes, pies, candy canes, and caramels galore—that is what has become expected of holiday parties and festive shopping trips. No matter where you turn, there will be some indulgent treat waiting around the corner to tempt your sweet tooth.

Excessive sugar consumption provides an ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Be sure to moderate the amount of sugar you snatch this year.

Traveling Dental Health Woes

Holiday travels may disrupt your usual oral care habits. Forgetting toothbrushes, skipping flossing, or neglecting oral hygiene altogether during trips can contribute to the accumulation of bacteria and plaque. To keep these sticky forces at bay, stock a travel-sized dental kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss!

Holiday Stress Grinding

There’s more to the holidays than joy and laughter. Sometimes things come up and the stress can really get to you. Stress is a known trigger for teeth grinding, which can result in jaw pain, headaches, and even cracked or worn-down teeth. The pressures of holiday preparations and social obligations can truly take a toll on your dental health.

Toasting and Toothaches

Holiday gatherings often include a bevy of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Alcoholic drinks, especially those high in sugar and acidity like wine, can contribute to enamel erosion and increased susceptibility to cavities. Additionally, frequent toasting and sipping can lead to prolonged exposure of teeth to staining chemicals that will leave them discolored.

While it’s not a great time of year for your teeth, a little bit of caution goes a long way. With some moderation and self-awareness, you can avoid these holiday pitfalls and keep your smile looking merry and bright for another season. If you’re having tooth troubles, visit your dentist. This can be especially valuable if you’re traveling, so you can get your checkup in before your time disappears.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry in North Dallas, you’ll be welcomed by a highly professional and caring team of dental experts. They care about your treatment and will use the latest dental technology and techniques to ensure that you step out with a smile you can be proud of. Before the holiday rush sweeps you off to gifts and cheer, come in to get your teeth ready for a new year! Call (972) 490-1600 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about the treatments they offer.