The holiday season is a time of joy, family, and friends – but it can also be a time of cavities and trips to the dentist. Kids are especially susceptible to developing tooth decay during this time of year because of the increased amount of candy and sweets that they are likely to consume.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent tooth decay during the holidays. Here’s 6 keeps to ensure your child has healthy teeth all year.

Tip # 1: Maintain good oral health habits

It’s easy to get off track during the holidays, but this time of the year is the most important time to remember to keep your healthy hygiene habits. Make sure you and your child brush twice a day. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to make sure that your child is brushing their teeth regularly – especially during the holiday season when they are consuming more sugar than usual.

At a minimum, remember to: 

  • Brush twice daily
  • Floss at least once per day

During the holidays, we recommend brushing after every meal and flossing more often, especially after eating sweets. This will help remove any plaque or food particles that may be stuck in between their teeth and can cause decay.

Tip # 2: Indulge in foods you love, but don’t forget the healthy balance! 

The holidays are a time to indulge in all of your favorite foods and treats. We want you to enjoy all the foods you love, just remember to also mix in healthy alternatives like fruits and vegetables to keep a balanced diet! 

When you are eating rich or sweet foods, make sure you brush and floss after so that your teeth don’t suffer!

Tip # 3: Stay hydrated!

The third tip is to make sure you and your child drink plenty of water. Water helps to flush away sugars and acids that can damage teeth. Staying hydrated also helps your body function properly so that your entire health is staying on track.

Tip # 4: Use fluoride toothpaste

Our fourth tip might be one you hear less frequently – choose a toothpaste with fluoride included. Fluoride helps to protect teeth from cavities and decay and can act as an additional defense during the holiday season. Many toothpastes have fluoride in them, so make sure you choose a brand with fluoride added.

Tip # 5: Talk about good oral health!

Don’t forget to talk about the reason for maintaining good oral health with the whole family. No one wants bad breath or damaged teeth – when you teach your family about good oral hygiene habits, you’re setting them up for a lifetime of health. The sooner they learn how to take care of their teeth, the better!

Tip # 6: Visit the dentist every 6 months

Our final tip for healthy oral hygiene is to schedule regular dental check-ups for you and your child. This will help ensure that their teeth are healthy and that any problems are caught early on.

We hope you found these tips helpful. If you need to schedule a dentist appointment in Reno, Nevada this holiday season, contact our Reno dental experts to improve your oral health today.

Happy holidays! 🙂