The holiday season is a time for joy, indulgence, and togetherness, but it can also take a toll on your teeth. Between the sugary treats, constant snacking, and festive beverages, maintaining good oral hygiene during this season is crucial. That’s why we’re bringing you 12 Days of Oral Care this December—a guide to keep your smile bright and healthy while enjoying the holiday season!

On the First Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A candy-free advent calendar!
Swap the traditional chocolate-filled advent calendar for one with small toys, puzzles, or family-friendly activities. Opening a candy advent calendar can be a fun and engaging activity, but a candy a day won't keep the dentist away. We suggest opting for advent calendars with mini toy cars or figurines so you and your kids can still enjoy the countdown to Christmas while sparing their teeth from sugary trouble.

On the Second Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A toothbrush that sings!
Hum your favorite holiday song while brushing your teeth. This ensures you brush for the recommended 2-4 minutes, leaving your teeth clean and your dentist merry!

On the Third Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

Valuable gift wrapping advice!
When wrapping gifts, don’t cut tape or packaging with your teeth. It might save time, but it risks chipping or breaking your teeth. Keep your smile shining bright for those family photos, grab those scissors instead!

On the Fourth Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A water break between each bite!
Drinking water between meals and snacks helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of tooth decay while keeping you hydrated. Water promotes saliva production which contains antimicrobial agents that fight bad bacteria that cause cavities, acting as a natural cleaning agent for your teeth. 

On the Fifth Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A reason to love turkey!
Turkey isn’t just delicious, it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that benefit your oral health. It’s high in phosphorus, which partners with calcium to create hydroxyapatite—an essential mineral that forms the primary structural component of bones and tooth enamel. Additionally, turkey is packed with protein, vitamin D and minerals, making it a tooth-friendly choice for your holiday feasts. Enjoy your turkey dinners guilt-free!

On the Sixth Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A no-smoking pact!
Skip the cigars this season. Smoking doubles your risk of oral health problems such as gum disease, infections, and even tooth loss. It also contributes to bad breath, discoloration of teeth, and a weakened immune response, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. While your dentist can help manage and treat the effects of gum disease, prevention is always better than treatment. By avoiding smoking, you protect not just your teeth and gums but also your overall health, giving yourself the gift of a brighter smile and a healthier holiday.

On the Seventh Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A surprising benefit of wine!

While red wine is known for its potential to stain teeth, it might not be all bad news. Studies suggest that red wine contains polyphenols, which can help reduce harmful oral bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. However, moderation is key—overindulging can still lead to stains and other oral health issues (Read More Here). To get the best of both worlds, enjoy your wine with a meal, rinse with water afterward, and follow up with proper oral hygiene to maintain your festive smile! 

On the Eighth Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A sticky-candy ban!
Avoid caramel, toffee, and other sticky treats unless you plan to brush immediately afterward. These candies cling to your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities. Instead, consider dark chocolate as a less harmful alternative for your teeth as it contains less sugar and may offer additional benefits due to its antioxidants. 

On the Ninth Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A mouthwash upgrade!
Include mouthwash in your daily routine to reduce bacteria, clean around your gums, and remineralize your teeth. When traveling during the holidays, mouthwash is a small, portable, and easy-to-pack option for maintaining your oral health on the go. It’s perfect for freshening your breath and keeping your smile healthy, especially when brushing and flossing aren’t immediately accessible. This simple step can make a big difference during the holiday feast season.

On the Tenth Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A tongue-cleaning tip!
Plaque isn’t just on your teeth—it builds up on your tongue too. Remember to clean your tongue gently each time you brush using a stainless steel tongue scraper for maximum ease and effectiveness. This simple habit helps reduce bacteria, freshen your breath, and support overall oral health. 

On the Eleventh Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A fluoride reminder!
Ensure your toothpaste contains fluoride to protect against cavities. Fluoride is a great ingredient that can reverse early tooth decay and remineralize your tooth enamel. Fluoride also provides an additional layer of protection that helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. Even with the best oral hygiene practices, some areas of your teeth can be hard to clean thoroughly, and fluoride helps to protect these vulnerable areas. Be sure to double-check the label before buying your next tube. 

On the Twelfth Day of December, My Dentist Gave to Me

A post-holiday checkup!
After the festivities, schedule a dental checkup. Even with the best habits, the holiday season can be hard on your teeth. A professional cleaning and exam can help you start the new year with a fresh, healthy smile.

Reminder: Metropointe Dental Clinic will be closed Dec 24-25 and from Dec 27-Jan 5. Follow us on Instagram @metropointedental to stay up-to-date on our hours, promotional news, and tips for maintaining your oral health throughout any season!

Happy Holidays from the Metropointe Team! We wish you a season filled with cheer and bright, healthy smiles!