Smiles for Season

by Taylor Trahan Henry

The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence, and while we all love to savor the sweet treats that abound during this time, it’s essential to keep our oral health and hygiene in mind.

Dr. Erin Moore Seale, dentist with Seale Family Dentistry in Lake Charles, emphasizes that enjoying holiday treats is absolutely okay, as long as it’s done mindfully. “The key is moderation and pairing sugary treats with good oral habits,” says Dr. Seale. She suggests drinking plenty of water while enjoying sweets, as it helps wash away cavity-causing food particles, preventing them from lingering on the teeth.

Not all holiday treats are created equal when it comes to their impact on oral health. “Sticky foods that cling to teeth pose a higher risk,” says Dr. Seale. “However, enjoying these foods as part of a meal and following up with water can mitigate potential damage.” Additionally, she recommends opting for healthier alternatives whenever possible, such as incorporating nuts, cheese, and crunchy fruits and vegetables into your festive snacking repertoire.

Slowly sipping sugary or acidic beverages throughout the day can be particularly harmful to enamel. Instead, she advises enjoying a treat in one go and then switching to water. And for those who indulge, a little extra attention to oral hygiene through additional brushing and flossing goes a long way.

The holiday season often brings with it a fair share of stress, which can lead to teeth clenching. “Awareness is the first step in combating this issue,” says Dr. Seale. “Whether it occurs while working, driving, or during periods of stress, clenching can have serious consequences.” To prevent damage to teeth and temporomandibular joints, she recommends wearing a nightguard during sleep, providing a protective barrier and promoting a pain-free wake-up.

Amidst the holiday hustle and bustle, it’s crucial not to neglect regular dental check-ups. Dr. Seale says that stress, indulgent treats, and unexpected foreign objects like BBs found in wild game, can cause damage to teeth and other oral tissues this time of year. Identifying potential problems early allows for less invasive interventions and avoids waiting until pain signals a more complicated issue, which can be both uncomfortable and costly.

“In the spirit of the season, everyone should absolutely enjoy the holidays,” Dr. Seale says. “By adopting these tips and incorporating a little extra care into our festive routines, we can all ensure our smiles remain bright throughout the most wonderful time of the year.”