How To Protect Your Teeth Over The Kiwi Festive Season

The festive season in Aotearoa is full of good times—think backyard BBQs, Christmas treats, and beach days. But let’s be real, all that delicious kai and sweet treats can sometimes leave your teeth feeling a little worse for wear. So, how do we protect our teeth while indulging in all the festive goodness? Let’s dive into how your diet can impact tooth decay and some simple ways to keep your teeth happy over the summer.

How Does Your Diet Impact Your Teeth This Festive Season?

The holidays are packed with tasty treats, but some of those sugary goodies can cause havoc on your pearly whites. When sugar sticks around on your teeth, it feeds the bacteria in your mouth, turning into acids that slowly wear down tooth enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities and other dental drama.

Here’s what to look out for:

Candy Canes & Christmas Lollies: Super sweet and sticky, these little guys love to hang around on your teeth long after the party’s over.
Christmas Pudding & Cake: Oh, we love a good slice of pud, but it’s packed with sugar and stickiness that can cause plaque to build up.
Soft Drinks & Alcohol: Fizzy drinks and wine can be acidic, which isn’t so kind to your enamel.
Fruit Juices: These often sneak in extra sugar and acids that can leave your teeth feeling the burn.

Why Brushing & Flossing Are Extra Important Over the Holidays

We get it—the holiday rush is real. But if there’s one thing you don’t want to skip, it’s your daily brush and floss routine. You’ve been enjoying your fair share of sweets, so it’s time to step up your game. Brushing twice a day (yes, even after that Christmas pudding!) helps remove the sugar and plaque that can build up. And don’t forget to floss—it’s the ultimate defence against those bits of food stuck between your teeth!

3 Simple Tips to Protect Your Teeth This Festive Season

Brush After Eating: Had one too many mince pies? No worries! Brush your teeth after indulging to get rid of any sugar lurking around. If you’re out and about, rinse your mouth with water until you can get to a toothbrush.
Drink Water: Water’s your BFF! It helps wash away food bits and sugar, keeping your mouth fresh. Plus, it’ll stop that dry mouth feeling when you’re overindulging in snacks or wine.
Snack Smarter: Instead of reaching for sugary snacks, try snacking on nuts, cheese, or veggies. These are good for your teeth and even help neutralise acids in your mouth. Win-win!

Don’t Skip Your Dentist During the Holidays

We know you’re busy, but don’t skip your dentist appointments! Getting your teeth checked during the festive season can help catch any issues before they become a real pain (literally!). Your dentist or hygienist will check for any early signs of tooth decay and give your teeth a proper clean so you’re ready to keep smiling all summer long.

What Happens During a Check-Up?

At your dentist appointment, here’s what usually goes down:

Teeth Cleaning: They’ll remove any plaque and tartar that have built up. Don’t worry, your teeth will feel super fresh afterward!
Check for Cavities: Early detection means fewer issues later on—always a good thing.
Fluoride Treatment: Sometimes, they’ll apply fluoride to help protect your teeth from decay.
Gum Check: Your dentist will also take a look at your gums to make sure they’re in tip-top shape.

How to Keep Your Smile Healthy Between Appointments

It’s not just about the dentist visits—what you do at home counts too! Here are some tips to keep your smile sparkling through the summer holidays:

Brush Properly: Brush your teeth twice a day, especially after meals, to keep things clean and fresh.
Floss Daily: Flossing gets rid of the gunk that your toothbrush can’t reach. It’s quick, easy, and a game-changer for your smile.
Limit Sugary Snacks: We know it’s tempting, but try to keep those sugary treats to a minimum. Opt for healthier options like cheese, nuts, or fruit.
Use Mouthwash: Mouthwash isn’t a replacement for brushing and flossing, but it helps freshen your breath and kill bacteria. Use it to top off your daily routine.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Life can throw curveballs when you least expect it especially in the holidays, and dental emergencies are no exception. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a chipped tooth, or something more serious, knowing when to get emergency dental care is crucial to protect your smile.

At PrimeCare Dental, we’re here to help you handle those unexpected moments with expert care and a compassionate approach on how to protect your teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I see the dentist during the holidays?
Try to keep up with your regular check-ups every six months. But if you’ve been indulging a lot, it’s a good idea to pop in for a clean to keep your teeth in good shape.

What if I have sensitive teeth after all the treats?
No worries! Let your dentist know, and they’ll be gentle, using special techniques or numbing gels to make sure you’re comfortable.

What happens if I skip brushing after all the sweets?
If you skip brushing, plaque and sugar can stick around on your teeth, which can lead to cavities. It’s always best to brush after indulging to keep your smile sparkling.

Can my diet impact my teeth after the holidays too?
Absolutely! What you eat year-round affects your oral health. Stick to a balanced diet with lots of water, veggies, and fruits to support healthy teeth.

If it’s time for your next dental check-up, or you’ve got any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at PrimeCare Dental, we’ll help protect your teeth all summer long. Enjoy the festive season to the max without worrying about your teeth!

How To Protect Your Teeth Over The Kiwi Festive Season