December is a time to indulge in festive treats, sweet delights and perhaps a glass or three of your favourite drink. It’s also a time of year that can be quite stressful for many of us.
All of this can have a detrimental impact on your teeth and wellbeing, so here are a few tips to help you step into the new year with a bright healthy smile.
Feeling a little stressed?
More than half of the British population, grind their teeth and clench their jaw as a stress response. This can cause many uncomfortable symptoms including jaw pain, headaches, sensitivity and damage to the teeth, a wider more bulky jaw. If you’re experiencing any of these, get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible to assess and discuss solutions.
Choose your festive treats wisely: Bacteria in the mouth react with sugars from food and beverages to create acid, which erodes tooth enamel and causes tooth decay. Where possible, opt for sugar free or reduced sugar treats and drinks that won’t contribute to tooth decay.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to rinse your mouth and help maintain a neutral pH balance.
Maintain your oral hygiene routine: As a minimum, don’t forget to brush twice a day, and to floss or teepee regularly. Remember, poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which can cause inflamed gums and infection. Gum disease can also be linked to other health conditions, such as heart disease, pneumonia, and dementia.
Schedule a post holiday check up: If you have not had a check up in the past 3 months then book a dental hygiene appointment and check up early next year to prioritise your oral health and give yourself peace of mind – especially if you’ve noticed any of the symptoms above. Remember, tartar can only be removed by a dental professional.
