Give Yourself The Gift Of Good Oral Health

SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - 'Tis the season for giving, but remember to give yourself the most important gift of all this holiday season: a healthy smile! Maintaining good oral hygiene during the holiday season is more important than ever, advises the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).

"Holiday get-togethers tend to lead people to consume sugary treats and drink alcoholic beverages more than usual," AGD spokesperson George Shepley said in a release.

"Additionally, with their busy schedules and increased stress levels, I've noticed that my patients' oral hygiene suffers. They forget the most basic of oral hygiene tasks that can counteract the effects of sugary snacks and drinks," he continued.

If all you want this holiday season is to keep your two front teeth, or all of your teeth for that matter, then check out Dr. Shepley's tips on how to save your smile.

Wine -- Whether red or white, the high acidity levels in wine can eat away at a tooth's enamel. Tooth enamel is critical in the protection against decay and cavities. To avoid damage, refrain from swishing the wine around in your mouth, and drink water in between beverages to rinse the teeth of the acid. Cheers!

Sugary Treats -- Bacteria in the mouth thrive on the sugars found in candy canes, chocolate, and gingerbread cookies, increasing the likelihood of developing cavities. If you are not able to brush and floss after munching on sweet treats, drink water or chew a piece of sugarless gum. This will boost saliva flow in the mouth and help wash away bacteria.

Stress -- Holiday anxiety can cause people to grind or clench their teeth, causing jaw pain, headaches, and chipping. Finding ways to alleviate your anxiety can help, but it's also important to see your dentist, who can recommend solutions like a custom night guard, which will prevent you from taking out the holiday stress on your teeth while you sleep.

"A healthy smile should always be at the top of your wish list. Brush and floss your teeth twice daily and schedule an appointment to see your general dentist at least twice a year," said Shepley.

For more information about oral health, visit www.KnowYourTeeth.com.