{"id":121,"date":"2022-12-16T11:06:00","date_gmt":"2022-12-16T11:06:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.downtownpittsburghdentist.com\/blog\/?p=121"},"modified":"2023-01-08T23:07:00","modified_gmt":"2023-01-08T23:07:00","slug":"are-the-holidays-bad-for-oral-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.downtownpittsburghdentist.com\/blog\/2022\/12\/16\/are-the-holidays-bad-for-oral-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Are the Holidays Really That Bad for Teeth?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Like most people, you probably know that winter holidays are enjoyable. These festivities, after all, include things like gift-giving, end-of-year parties, and eye-catching decorations! However, were you aware that this time of year risks your oral health<\/a>? Indeed, it can really harm your teeth and gums if you aren\u2019t careful. Luckily, though, your Pittsburgh dentist has some good advice. Here\u2019s a summary of why holidays damage smiles and how to protect your teeth from them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why Holidays are Risky for Teeth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The truth is that holidays encourage bad oral habits. In particular, they tend to involve the following: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travel & Changes to Routine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many people travel to see family during the holiday season. Unfortunately, this activity is disruptive to good oral hygiene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You see, it\u2019s hard to maintain dental routines when traveling. You\u2019re so busy with loved ones that you forget to clean your teeth! Consequently, plaque and bacteria get a chance to erode your smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Given such effects, consider packing a dental kit when you travel. Its items will make oral care a snap!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lots of Sweets & Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

December holidays feature a lot of sweets \u2014 candy canes, peppermint, gingerbread cookies, and more. These treats, though, can do a serious number on teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The problem is that the above items are packed with sugar, a tooth-eroding carb. As such, eating them to excess causes tooth decay, cavities, and worse. Plus, these foods\u2019 hard textures can make their sugar stick to teeth for long periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Constant Snacking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many winter holidays involve large meals and snacks. While this eating is great for family bonding, however, it\u2019s rather harmful to teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The issue is that constant snacking dries out our mouths. Without breaks, your mouth doesn\u2019t have a chance to replenish its saliva. Consequently, the food bits that cling to your teeth attract harmful bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep Your Smile Safe During Holidays<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Of course, there are ways to keep your smile safe during the holidays. Just use the tips below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n