Dentists offer advice to avoid dental dramas during the festive season
Christmas is traditionally a time of indulgence. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying eating and drinking seasonal treats, dentists are encouraging people to spare a thought for their teeth this Christmas.
Dr Khaled Kasem, chief of orthodontists at Impress, has shared some top tips to help the public enjoy the festivities without putting their dental health at risk.
The main concern for most dentists is increased sugar consumption during the holidays. From mince pies and Christmas pudding to selection boxes and endless tubs of sweets and chocolates, most people consume a lot more sugar than they would normally. Dr Kasem recommends moderating sugar intake, trying to avoid grazing on sugary foods and sticking to mealtimes to reduce the risk of acid erosion. Rinsing with water and waiting to brush the teeth for at least 45 minutes after eating are also beneficial.
Dr Kasem also advised those who enjoy a festive tipple to combine alcoholic drinks, such as wine and mulled wine, with cheese. Cheese has a high pH value, and it can help to neutralise acids in the mouth. It is also a good source of protein and calcium and it can help to lower the risk of staining.
Another top tip for healthy teeth at Christmas is brushing more frequently. If sugar consumption increases, it is beneficial to brush three times a day. Dr Kasem also urged caution with shop-bought festive drinks, as many contain a huge amount of sugar. There are seasonal hot chocolates and lattes, for example, which contain around 15 cubes of sugar per cup.
Dentists are also keen to encourage patients to avoid the age-old conundrum of finding themselves in a situation where they use their teeth to open bottles in the absence of a bottle opener. This can damage the teeth, causing chips and fractures, which will require treatment.
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