Don’t let an oral accident spoil the holidays. Protect yourself by enforcing proper prevention techniques, employing safe standards of conduct, and wearing any applicable gear that can keep your smile healthy and safe long after all the season comes to close. Know the risks that come with the winter season and know what you can do to protect yourself. Here are some frequently asked questions about oral health risks:
Question: What else can I do to protect myself during the holiday season?
Answer: Ice skating can be loads of fun, but falling can be dangerous. Make sure you wear proper safety gear including a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums. This also applies to other outdoor winter activities that can be dangerous to your mouth (such as hockey, sledding, and skiing).
Question: What else can I do to protect myself during the holiday season?
Answer: Ice skating can be loads of fun, but falling can be dangerous. Make sure you wear proper safety gear including a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums. This also applies to other outdoor winter activities that can be dangerous to your mouth (such as hockey, sledding, and skiing).
Question: What are some other holiday habits that can help me other than brushing and flossing?
Answer: Although brushing and flossing are two of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums safe, there are a few other habits that you can do yourself to protect your teeth. If you indulge in holiday fare and can’t brush, sugarless gum can help the body produce saliva, which fights against cavities and harmful bacteria in your mouth.
Question: What are some treats that can pose health care risks this holiday season?
Answer: You should be wary of:
- chewy candies (such as taffy and gummies) that can stick to your teeth and gums
- hard candies (such as jumbo candy canes, peppermint bark, or peanut brittle) that can chip or crack teeth
- popcorn balls and popcorn kernels that can chip or crack teeth
- nuts that can get wedged between teeth
- such as hard cookies and crackers
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kenneth Kirk, please contact Houston Cosmetic & Family Dental Associates at our office in Spring, Texas by calling us at 281-826-0025. Tis the season to be smiling bright!