With the holidays comes festivity, food, beverages, fun and sometimes travel. As your local dentist in Melbourne cbd, we welcome you to book in for a dental clean and check-up prior to your holidays or travel to address any dental problems and clean your teeth to help prevent any build-up of plaque. This will also have you smiling brighter for the holiday season.
We know it’s difficult to avoid sugary foods and beverages during the holidays so we encourage you to come in for a check-up to ensure your oral health is in the best condition prior to holidays.
What happens if I don’t look after my teeth?
To first understand the impact that neglecting your teeth can have, it’s good to understand the anatomy of the tooth.
Your teeth are surrounded by gum tissue and the tooth itself is made up of a number of layers. The outer layer is the enamel which provides protection for the layers beneath it.
Under the enamel is the dentin (or dentine) which is less brittle and it supports the enamel. The next layer is the pulp cavity followed by the root canal. If the enamel is damaged and the dentin exposed, you may experience tooth pain.
If you don’t look after your teeth you may end up with any of the following issues:
- a build up of plaque,
- cavities,
- gingivitis,
- receding gums,
- tooth decay,
- tooth loss.
Therefore, it’s important to protect the enamel by choosing wisely what you eat and drink and following a brushing routine.
Dental surgery and a hefty bill, should not be on your holiday ‘to do’ list and it’s important to look after your teeth all of the time.
Top 3 Tips for Tooth Care Over the Holidays from your Melbourne Dentist
Tip 1 – Be wary of the sweet tooth
It’s easy to snack out on sweet foods when on holidays and what makes it harder is when sweets and drinks are right there in front of you, if you are at a gathering.
Where possible, avoid sugary drinks, sodas, alcohol, chocolate, desserts with high sugar content and chewy treats. If you do intent on having something sweet, just have a small amount and have it directly after a main meal when your saliva production is in full swing.
Saliva plays an important part in breaking down food particles. Follow that on with rinsing your mouth or brushing can help reduce the impact that food and beverages have on your teeth. Drinking water does more than provide hydration; it also assists with saliva production and reduction of dry mouth. So choose water as your first option.
Tip 2 – Your teeth are not a tool
Can’t find a bottle opener? Nut cracker not where it should be? Thinking of crunching on the ice in your drink?
No matter what, do not use your teeth as a mechanism to open beverages or hard shell nuts. Crunching on ice is also best avoided. It’s not a cool party trick when your tooth is chipped or cracked and you end up at an emergency dentist.
Tip 3 – Routine, Routine, Routine
Don’t skip out on your regular brushing and flossing during holidays. If you are traveling and not sure of the facilities, pack a tooth brush, tooth paste, dental floss, a small cup and bottled water. You’ll be well equipped regardless of where you are staying.
Part of your routine should also involve regular teeth cleans and check-ups with your Melbourne Dentist. Our dental clinic located in the Melbourne cbd makes it easy for you to access our dental services.
Remember to take your health insurance details if you are covered for dental, in the unfortunate event that you need to see a dentist. Holistic Dental Melbourne CBD looks forward to providing leading dental care for you and your family. Call us to make an appointment tel:(03) 9662 2288 and enjoy the holiday period.
