Easter is on its way…which means the Easter Bunny will be hopping through soon, bringing us lots of candy and sweet treats.
So, how do you keep your family’s teeth healthy during a holiday filled with chocolate bunnies and marshmallow chicks?
In this post, Atkins & Anderson DDS shares four ways to enjoy this special holiday – and still protect your family’s teeth this Easter season.
1. Eat sweet treats after meals.
Grazing on sweet treats throughout the day coats teeth in sugar and puts them under constant attack by acid-producing bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
When you eat, your mouth produces saliva containing minerals and proteins that protect your tooth enamel and help prevent cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. We recommend eating sweet treats after meals when your mouth is already producing saliva and is better equipped to fight a sugar-induced acid attack.
2. Drink plenty of water.
We all know water keeps your body hydrated. But did you know it also keeps your mouth healthy? Drinking water after each meal, snack, or sweet treat helps wash away food particles and sugar from your teeth. It also helps prevent bacterial growth that can lead to tooth decay.
3. Brush and floss daily.
Aim to brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes every morning and night with fluoride toothpaste. Avoid rinsing after brushing your teeth to prevent the protective fluoride from being washed away.
Use dental floss or interdental brushes daily to remove the sticky plaque between your teeth. It's also important to supervise children's brushing and ensure that every family member brushes their teeth thoroughly before bed – even during the Easter holidays!
Read More: Daily Dental Do’s – 4 Ways to Keep You and Your Teeth Healthy
4. Replace your toothbrush every three months.
Your toothbrush may look new, but it’s actually full of bacteria. One helpful way to remember is to get a new toothbrush for every family member at the beginning of each season. Adding a new toothbrush to Easter baskets is a fun and healthy tradition!
Read More: How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?
Happy Easter from Atkins & Anderson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Practice these four tips for healthy teeth and gums at Easter and throughout the year. Regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments will also keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.
Atkins & Anderson DDS features three top dentists in Bryan/College Station who care for patients of all ages – Brady Atkins, DDS; Lindsey Atkins, DDS; and Craig Anderson, DDS. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our general, restorative, and cosmetic services.