Tips for Yuletide Snacking from Your San Mateo Cosmetic Dentist

Here we go with the holiday season — the time of year notorious for delicious nibbles. While this year may be quite different due to COVID precautions, we know that family and friends will safely gather to enjoy each other’s company and open presents.

And then there’s the food. The wonderful, sugary cookies, candy, and cakes that we look forward to every year.

We don’t want to put a damper on your holiday celebrations (we’re not the Grinch, after all), but San Mateo Center for Cosmetic Dentistry doesn’t want you to neglect your teeth, either. We’re here to say that you don’t need to skip those delectable treats, just take care.

Here are a few suggestions to keep your teeth healthy and happy throughout the holiday season.

• Be cautious with candy — and that includes candy canes, ribbon candy, and those delightfully wrapped sweets that come in all colors. Not only do they contain lots (and lots) of sugar, they can also crack your teeth as you chomp.
• Sticky candy (such as caramel and marshmallows) are more sweet treats that can become trapped between teeth and cause plaque. Sticky treats can also yank out fillings and gunk up braces. You can still enjoy these sugary edibles, though, but just be sure to brush and floss carefully to ensure all residue is removed.
• Don’t chew ice. We know it can be irresistible, but just like hard candy, chewing on ice cubes can crack your teeth.
• Your teeth aren’t tools, so don’t use them to open bottles or crack nuts. There are implements available just for those purposes, so use them!
• Try to avoid the sugary drinks, especially soda. Carbonated drinks erode teeth and, likewise, wine and coffee can stain teeth. If you have to drink soda, use a straw.
  
  Water may not be the most holiday-inspired beverage, but it’s still the best for hydration. A glass of sparkling water with fresh lemon or lime is always refreshing — or stick to lighter colored beverages to keep stains at bay.
• Cakes. Cookies. Pies. Chocolate. Who can avoid those temptations — especially when they’re on tabletops displaying their beautiful icing and sprinkles? You don’t have to skip them but do TRY to limit them. Stay busy with presents and board games to keep yourself from grazing all day. You’ll seriously reduce the risk of tooth decay if you can.
• And one last word — if you’re traveling this season, don’t forget to pack your toothbrush and dental floss!

 
Don’t be reluctant to enjoy the goodies of the holiday season, just remember to take care of your teeth too. Our team at the best cosmetic dentist in San Mateo wants to be sure your teeth stay healthy all year long.

From our family to yours, Happy Holidays!