Indulging in sweet treats during the holidays can be very tempting, especially when there are all kinds of cake and cookies around, holiday potlucks, and sweet stocking stuffers. But eating too many high-sugar foods can do a number on your teeth, whether or not you are undergoing orthodontic treatments like Invisalign and braces. At Dr. Dann Orthodontics we encourage our patients in Winter Park, FL to keep an eye on their sugar intake and be extra thorough when caring for their teeth this holiday season.
Avoid Hard, Chewy, Crunchy Foods
This is especially important if you have orthodontic appliances like braces or palatal expanders. Crunchy foods like nuts and chips can damage wires and brackets, and chewy sticky foods can yank them out and gum them up. Hard candies should be licked, not bitten, to avoid a dental nightmare.
Avoid Sugary Holiday Drinks
One of the worst food items for your teeth is sweet sugary drinks. Slowly sipping a large glass of eggnog, hot cocoa, or soda pop means your teeth are in contact with high amounts of sugar or corrosive acid for a long period, doing more damage to the enamel.
Stay Consistent with Your Routine
Even if you’re traveling or caught up in the holiday spirit, it is important to stick to your routine when it comes to dental hygiene. Cleaning your teeth, as usual, using fluoride toothpaste, remembering to wear your Invisalign aligners, or cleaning your braces are all just as important as every other day.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking lots of water is really good for tooth and gum health. Not only do you stay hydrated, but lots of water helps keep the mouth from becoming too acidic, which can cause bacteria to multiply and damage teeth. More water also means you’re always flushing out food residue and particles.
Contact Your Orthodontist
If one of your New Year's resolutions is to discover your smile’s true potential with orthodontic treatment, contact Dr. Dann Orthodontics and request an appointment today! There are many different types of braces, and braces alternatives like Invisalign, to choose from. Our experts will design a treatment plan to suit your lifestyle and provide the best results.