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MyTeeth dental blog

Looking after your oral health this Christmas

The festive countdown is now in full swing and everyone’s calendar is full of Christmas parties and dinners, where more often than not we’ll be treated to any number of sugary treats.

Over the holidays, it’s not unusual to go from our regular eating habits to enjoying several mince pies, chocolates and a helping of christmas pudding in one day! 

While no one is going to spoil your fun or tell you off for a little overindulgence this Christmas, there are a few things you can bear in mind to look after your pearly whites. Our deputy chief dental officer, Henry Clover, has shared a few handy tips to help limit the impact of Christmas on your oral health: 


Sweets, chocolates and biscuits

Believe it not, it’s not so much the quantity of sugar you eat that damages your teeth, it’s how often you eat it. Every time we eat or drink something sugary, bacteria in our mouths produce acids that can cause tooth decay. It takes your saliva about an hour to neutralise these acids, so if you’re continually snacking on sugary treats, your teeth will be under constant attack. This means it’s far better if you have sugary treats as part of a meal, rather than grazing on them throughout the day.

Christmas treats

Don't neglect your oral health over the Christmas season!

Fizzy drinks and fruit juices

While a soft drink or fruit juice might seem like a sensible non-alcoholic choice this Christmas, many are loaded with decay-causing sugar. Even diet fizzy drinks are highly acidic which can cause can cause tooth enamel to soften. Try a refreshing iced water flavoured with slices of fresh cucumber and mint leaves for a tooth-friendly alternative.

Cheese

Christmas isn’t complete without a decent cheeseboard, so as you’re tucking into a chunk of cheddar you’ll be pleased to know that it has dental benefits. Cheese neutralises the acids produced in your mouth after we eat, reducing tooth decay and making it a perfect end to a meal.



Published: December 15th, 2015

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