The end of the year Holiday cheer has come once more, and for many, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year. The bright lights and the joyous gift-giving passed around between loved ones reminds up how precious life is. The same love you show to others should be applied to yourself, and your health.

The festive season shouldn’t end in disaster, so do your part to stay safe. Below are some questions to help you decide which oral health care risks you should avoid:

Question: What are some treats that can pose health care risks this holiday season?
Answer: You should be wary of:

– chewy candies (such as taffy and gummies) that can stick to your Teeth and gums
– hard candies (such as jumbo candy canes, peppermint bark, or peanut brittle) that can chip or crack teeth
– popcorn balls and popcorn kernels that can chip or crack teeth
– nuts that can get wedged between teeth
– miscellaneous items (such as hard cookies and crackers)

Question: What else can I do to protect myself during the holiday season?
Answer: Ice skating can be loads of fun, but falling can be dangerous. Make sure you wear proper safety gear including a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums. This also applies to other outdoor winter activities that can be dangerous to your mouth (such as hockey, sledding, and skiing).

Question: What are some other holiday habits that can help me other than brushing and flossing?
Answer: Although brushing and flossing are two of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums safe, there are a few other habits that you can do yourself to protect your teeth. If you absolutely must have a holiday treat, sugarless gum can help the body produce saliva, which fights against cavities and bad bacteria in your mouth.

For more information or to book an appointment with Dr. Arpan Patel, please contact Alpha Dental Excellence at our office in Langhorne, Pennsylvania by calling us at (215) 750-2222. Come in today, and show off your better smile tomorrow!