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The holidays bring with it sweet treats that can compromise your dental health. From avoiding certain products to being mindful of your eating schedule, the dentists at Pure Dental Care NY note there are several effective ways to protect your smile. Keep the following advice in mind so you can steer clear of fillings once the festivities are over.

How to Lower Your Risk for Cavities During the Holidays

1. Avoid Candy Canes & Similar Treats

Candy canes and other hard candies can take an hour or more to finish—much longer than a slice of pumpkin pie. For as long as it takes to consume that candy cane, those sugars are attacking your teeth. Instead, choose sweets you can chew and swallow quickly. This limits your mouth’s exposure to corrosive ingredients, lessening your risk of cavities.

2. Eat Your Sweets With a Meal

DentistRather than eating sweet treats as a snack by themselves, include them with your meal. This further limits the amount of time your teeth are exposed to harmful substances because other foods will keep sugar from sticking. 

3. Drink Water

Water neutralizes the acidity of the sugar you’re indulging in, reducing the potential damage it can cause. Flat, mineral, and sparkling water can all give you this level of protection. The latter is a festive option, but be mindful of the flavored varieties, as those may contain added sweeteners. 

4. Don’t Brush Immediately After

The acids in many desserts soften tooth enamel. Brushing immediately after enjoying them can lead to the erosion of this hard outer layer, which can leave your teeth more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. Dentists recommend waiting at least 30 minutes to practice a cleaning routine. 

This holiday season, you don’t have to cut out sweets altogether to protect your teeth. Just follow these simple tips to avoid the need for a filling. If you’re looking for a dentist in the Manhattan area, visit Pure Dental Care NY’s website or call the office at (212) 256-1292. They can assist you with all your general and cosmetic dentistry needs and can offer more helpful advice to promote better hygiene. 

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