18 Dec Holidays, Sweets, and Your Teeth

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It has been perhaps the most challenging year in recent history and now it is time to celebrate the joys of the season. Unwrap the chocolate, build the gingerbread house, prepare the potato latkes, and enjoy a slice of apple pie. This season may require changes to how we celebrate, but it can be as meaningful and as indulgent as ever.

NEW FAMILY TRADITIONS

Due to COVID-19, many people will be celebrating at home with close family. If possible, take time off from work and create a few new traditions for a truly festive atmosphere.

• Bake favorite treats, prepare a new dish or make a traditional family recipe.
• Enjoy family movie night with homemade cookies and hot chocolate.
• Make a holiday playlist and have a mini dance party.
• Sing karaoke even if you cannot carry a tune.
• Play games, cards, or charades with prizes for the winners.

Living alone does not mean celebrating alone. Thanks to technology, we can easily share holiday cheer with family and friends. Consider an online cocktail party or family get-together.

• Schedule a video chat while preparing meals or opening gifts.
• Hold a cookie decorating contest over video chat.
• Catch up with a long-lost friend.
• Prepare a meal for a lonely or homebound senior.
• Drop-off food at local food pantries or shelters.
• Go for a walk and take time for self-care.

HOLIDAYS, SWEETS, AND YOUR TEETH

What is a holiday celebration without those decadent sweets, treats, and delicious eats! Enjoy those beautifully decorated cookies, cakes, and pies! After all, it is the holidays, and it has been a tough year.  Just remember a few things to minimize the spread of germs and practice good dental hygiene.

• Avoid hard candies that can break or chip teeth.
• Choose softer cookies or candies like dark chocolate instead of gummies. It won’t stick to your teeth, and cocoa beans offer beneficial antibacterial properties.
• Sugar promotes bacteria growth, so consider sugar-free treats instead.
• Packed with fiber and protein, nuts are great for snacking.
• Enjoy sweet treats but always brush afterward.
• Drink plenty of water for hydration and to flush bacteria from the mouth.

Remember to brush, floss, and rinse twice per day for 2 minutes each time. In addition to good oral hygiene, wash hands often. Wash before, during, and after preparing and eating food, touching your pets, blowing your nose, and using the bathroom.

HOLIDAY WISHES FOR YOU!

It is believed that an attitude of gratitude can keep us focused when faced with life’s challenges while also contributing to our physical and mental wellbeing. Now more than ever, it is so important to let family and friends know how much you love and appreciate their presence in your life. Wishing you and your family happy holidays! We look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Dr. Dragana Angelova

We Love to See You Smile