3 Oral Health Issues To Watch Out For Around The Holidays

With the holidays upon us, families can have more time together as kids enjoy breaks from their schooling and parents have welcome breaks from work. No matter what your household plans this season, it can be hard to resist the festive feelings that arise during this time of year. While you should make the most of this time, you should also be mindful that even the seemingly small changes in your routine during the holidays can affect your smile. Your diet can change more than you realize as you enjoy more seasonal foods and treats, and the change in your routine may impact your oral hygiene routine. Remember that your Ankeny, IA dentist is ready to take care of everyone in your family, so we can make sure everyone exits the holiday with healthy smiles!

1. Changes In Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Whether you travel, take in guests, or stay home, you can see a few changes in your routine during the holidays. It is important for everyone to stick with their oral hygiene routines at this time, as a small break can be enough to let tartar form on teeth. If that happens, you become more vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease. It is particularly important for you to make sure your kids are still brushing and flossing effectively while they do not have school, as children can be vulnerable to oral health troubles when they are not consistent with their habits.

2. An Increased Risk For Cavities Brought On By Holiday Treats

Many people have a favorite dessert to enjoy around the holidays, and they can also snack on an array of cookies and other treats that are served around this time of year. While you can enjoy yourself in moderation, take this change in your diet into account and look for ways to offset this change in your sugar consumption. By cutting back on sugar in other ways, you can protect yourself from tooth trouble that leads to a dental crown or dental filling!

3. A Chipped Or Cracked Tooth Experienced During A Holiday Meal

All it can take is one unlucky moment to prematurely end your meal with a chipped or cracked tooth! If this occurs, our practice can meet with you and recommend the appropriate dental service. While damage can sometimes be addressed with a cosmetic dental procedure, restorative work can be necessary if the injury affects your oral health.

Your Ankeny, IA Dentist Is Ready To Help You Protect Your Smile!

Through good habits and smart choices, you can keep your smile safe all year long! Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is happy to help you with this, just as we can help you if a problem does arise. If you wish to find out more, contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230 to schedule a visit.