TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY, BUT DON’T FORGET YOUR TOOTHBRUSH!!

Chocolate coins, candy canes, sugar mice, fizzy drinks....

 With so many indulgent treats around at Christmas, it’s easy to see how our oral health can take a hit during the festive season! To help keep Walsall on track, local dentist Yusuf Kaderbhai from WS4 Dental Care is offering tips for a tooth-happy Christmas. 

“Sugary treats are a great part of Christmas, but constantly nibbling on them throughout the day can be a disaster for our teeth,” says Yusuf. “Every time we consume sugary foods and drink, bacteria in our mouth produce acids which can cause tooth decay. Believe it or not, it’s actually better to eat a whole bag of chocolate coins in one go, say after a main meal, rather than gradually snacking on the bag over the course of the day.” 

Yusuf adds: “You can also keep teeth looking great for the Christmas party season by brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing regularly to remove food particles, and lift simple stains with a visit to the hygienist for a sparkling smile.”

 And what about that ‘niggle’ you’ve been ignoring?  

“With all the rich food and overindulgence in the weeks ahead, it’s best not to put off that trip to the dentist any longer,” advises Yusuf. “Untreated dental niggles can often turn into much more painful – and potentially more expensive - problems by the time Christmas actually arrives. Toothache, broken fillings, loose crowns, and rubbing or broken dentures, could worsen and compromise your enjoyment of this happy time, so don’t put these off. A check-up with your dentist should alleviate any concerns and set you on the right track if you do need any treatment before the festive period.”

 Yusuf’s tips for a healthy Christmas smile

* If have any concerns, visit your dentist as soon as possible to ensure any problems are treated before the festive period

* Eat sugary and acidic treats in one go rather than nibbling on them throughout the day

* Remember to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss regularly

* Acid in alcohol and soft drinks can soften tooth enamel so avoid brushing after straight after drinking – it’s best to wait an hour

* Cheese is a great way to end a meal as it neutralises acid in the mouth 

For more information, call the WS4 Dental Care team on 01922 622 877 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            01922 622 877      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit

www.ws4dentalcare.co.uk