For many of us, December is a time of joy, celebration, and…indulgence. Between festive feasts, sweet treats, and celebratory drinks, it’s easy to let your oral health take a backseat. However, maintaining a healthy smile doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun. By striking the right balance between enjoyment and care, you can keep your teeth healthy throughout the festive season. Here’s a few tips:
1. Watch out for sugary treats
This time of year we tend to experience an abundance of sugary things, from mince pies to gingerbread and candy canes. Whilst these delights are tempting, they can also be harmful to your teeth. Sticky sweets, in particular, cling to your teeth and are harder to wash away, increasing the risk of cavities.
Tip: Try enjoying your sweets with meals rather than snacking on them throughout the day. Saliva production is higher during meals, helping to neutralise acids and wash away sugars.
Alternative: Opt for festive snacks that are kinder to your teeth, like cheese boards, fresh fruit or nuts. These not only satisfy your cravings but also provide a break from sugar-heavy options.
2. Alternative advent
Older readers may remember being excited about opening a little door to see a picture on their advent calendar as a child, perhaps even taking turns with a sibling to see what was on the calendar each day. Now it seems to have become part of our culture to give our kids a chocolate advent calendar, which normalises starting their day with a chocolate for breakfast every day for 24 days!
Tip: As suggested above it’s better to eat a chocolate or sweet with a meal rather than on their own as saliva production is higher. Some children may have more than one calendar as they are often gifted by friends or relatives, if this is the case it is better for them to eat the chocolates for that day together and then brush their teeth.
Alternative: Why not skip the sweet treats and get your child an advent calendar with toys in it – Lego, Playmobil or Hot Wheels make a fabulous selection, or you can buy an empty calendar and fill it with small toys yourself (perhaps even a toothbrush?). Are you a big kid? Adults can now buy calendars containing cosmetics, candles, or even crystals which all offer a much better way to start your day.
3. Just say NO!
It may be hard to turn down chocolates, cakes, and festive treats that are being passed around at parties or events. You may even find a bottomless tub of Quality Street doing the rounds at work.
Tip: Try eating a healthy meal before you go out, so you’re not tempted to fill up on sugary snacks at the party.
Alternative: If you’re worried about appearing to be a bit of a Grinch or a Scrooge for turning down festive treats at work, take one and place it in your drawer, you can always sneak it back into the tub later. You could also try bringing in some healthy alternatives to share, either home baked low-sugar treats, or something savoury. Your colleagues might actually thank you for it!
4. Stay hydrated
Amidst the indulgence, don’t forget the simplest habit: drinking water. Water helps rinse away sugars, food particles, and acids, keeping your mouth fresh and clean.
Why it matters: Staying hydrated supports saliva production, which is essential for neutralising harmful bacteria and protecting your enamel.
Pro tip: If you’re enjoying acidic drinks like mulled wine or fizzy beverages, sip on water afterwards to minimise their impact on your teeth.
5. Don’t skip your routine
Busy days and late nights often lead to shortcuts in routines, but your oral hygiene shouldn’t take a holiday.
- Brushing: Stick to brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, using fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing: Don’t neglect to floss or use interdental brushes to clean between your teeth.
If you’re travelling, pack a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss in your bag so you’re prepared wherever you go. A quick brush before bed can make all the difference!
6. Be smart about beverages
Christmas drinks can be just as harmful as sweets. Red wine, coffee and tea can stain your teeth, whilst sugary hot chocolates and festive gingerbread lattes are often loaded with hidden sugars.
Tips to protect your smile:
- Drink through a straw to minimise contact with your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth with water after indulging in staining or sugary drinks.
- Be mindful of festive drinks like gingerbread lattes or peppermint mochas, which can contain more sugar than a dessert.
Moderation is key, so enjoy these treats occasionally rather than making them a daily habit.
7. Schedule a post-holiday check-up
The start of a new year is the perfect time to prioritise your oral health. A post-holiday dental check-up allows your dentist to address any issues early, giving you a fresh start for the year ahead.
Bonus tip: Set oral health resolutions for the new year, such as upgrading your toothbrush, using mouthwash, or committing to regular flossing. Small, consistent changes can lead to a healthier, brighter smile.
The Festive Season is always a time to enjoy with friends and family, but your teeth deserve care and attention too! By following these tips, you can indulge responsibly and keep your smile healthy throughout the festive season. From all of us at the Wellesley, we wish you a magical and joyful holiday and don’t forget to prioritise your oral health—it’s the gift that keeps on giving!
Ready to start the new year with your best smile? Book your post-holiday check-up at the Wellesley today.
