December 19, 2016
Have you considered the effect Christmas treats can have on your oral health?
Many people will unknowingly drink and eat at the expense of their smiles this festive season.
We’re not saying you shouldn’t enjoy this time of year along with the delicious Christmas treats, you just need to do it right! The team at Coastal Dental Care are big believers in moderation, and taking care of your teeth, gums and general health so you can enjoy an occasional treat. We are here to help explain what you can do to mitigate the damage of indulging in all that sugary goodness.
How do I protect my teeth against sugar?
Sugar can put the bacteria in your mouth into a frenzy, and result in decay and excessive tartar production. This build-up can damage the enamel of your teeth, and cause your dentine and sensitive pulp to become susceptible to disease and decay. This can become very painful and require restorative dentistry to strengthen and protect your natural tooth.
Drink water
If you have consumed sugary treats, water is a great way to rinse your mouth and reduce the amount of sugar stuck to your teeth.
Brush and floss
You should always brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Brush your teeth an hour after your last meal to give your saliva the chance to produce natural bacteria-fighting minerals. Once you’ve brushed your teeth for the night, make a cautious effort to only drink water to avoid leaving your mouth susceptible to tooth-decaying acids overnight.
Visit your dentist for a professional clean
Visit your dentist at least twice a year in order to monitor conditions of the mouth like tartar build up and decay. This is an imperative step in protecting your oral and general health.
Consider swaps
Swapping high-sugar recipes for equally as yummy, but healthier alternatives can be good for both your waist and your teeth. Here’s a recipe you might like to try this festive season!
At Coastal Dental Care, you can expect the high quality treatments combined with an unsurpassed level of care, as we dedicate ourselves to ensuring the health and integrity of your smile.