The Holidays can be stressful in a number of ways. Between shopping, traveling, and cooking big feasts, it can get hectic for any family. However, have you ever stopped to consider the strain that the festivities can put on your dental health?
If you want to explore the potential reasons behind the spike in dental dilemmas during the holidays, continue reading.
Tons of Sugary Treats
The over-abundance of sugar during the holidays, from candies to desserts, can create an ideal environment for harmful bacteria. Sugar is one of the favorite foods of plaque, the bacterial film that forms over your teeth after eating. When it reacts to the sugar, it creates acid that eats away at your tooth enamel, causing cavities.
Frequent Snacking
It’s not unusual to have leftovers stashed in the fridge or left out on a table over an afternoon. Because of this, many people simply eat small meals throughout the day. While this can be a comforting or cozy experience, it can also wreak havoc on your dental health.
Your teeth need time to recover after meals. If they don’t, they may begin to chip, crack, or become sensitive after multiple meals.
Skipped Oral Hygiene
Sometimes patients report not having time to brush their teeth during the holiday season. While this is probably due more to poor planning than to any actual lack of time, the problem persists. Be sure to continue your regular oral care routine whether you’re traveling or hosting a big get-together. Plaque and bacteria never sleep, so you must be diligent.
Holiday Stress and Teeth Grinding
The stress of the holidays can affect more than one aspect of your health. Sometimes stress can cause patients to grind their teeth (a condition known as bruxism.)
This causes immense damage to your teeth over time, including enamel wear, cracked teeth, and jaw pain. Try to practice mindfulness and do activities that lower cortisol levels like yoga, or simply relaxing by the fire.
So, the holidays can affect multiple aspects of your dental health if you let them. By being aware of the potential pitfalls of your holiday festivities, you can avoid damage to your dental health and take care of yourself and your loved ones. If you need more guidance on keeping your teeth in peak condition, consult your dentist or go in for a checkup!
About the Author
Dr. Deval Parmar is a talented and professional dentist who loves to help her patients smile their best. She earned her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in India before moving to the US where she earned her doctorate at the Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. As a lifelong learner, Dr. Parmar continues to improve her skills through professional organizations. Come into the office before the holiday rush to get a dental checkup at Archway Dental! Call (972) 972-4646 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more.