So, the Easter bunny and the delicious treats he leaves every year is fast approaching.
The good news is this: With proper precautions, you can enjoy a few Easter indulgences without damaging your teeth. So, go ahead! You can have your chocolate and eat it too this year, and still protect you and your family’s smile by using these 6 simple tips from the team at Mingara Dental.
- Stick with chocolate
If you’re thinking about offering lollies instead of chocolate, think again. Limit your consumption of lollies and other sweet treats that are sticky or gummy. While marshmallows, caramels, and jelly beans are tasty, it’s better for you to indulge your sweet tooth with chocolate or other treats that will not stick to your teeth as easily. Additionally, avoid sweets that are very hard as they can more easily break or chip your tooth enamel. Sour candies that leave your tongue sensitive also cause damage to the surface of your teeth.
- Don’t be a grazer
Munching on chocolates and lollies all day long is not only bad for your waistline, but also bad for your teeth. So, eat the chocolate post egg hunt and then step away from the Easter eggs. About 20 minutes after you eat, your saliva begins to neutralise the acids that are formed by the bacteria in your mouth. The more frequently that you eat, the longer your tooth enamel will be exposed to cavity-causing acids. If you can manage it, eat a crunchy food like an apple or carrot after you have something sweet. The texture of the crisp fruit will help scour some of the plaque from your teeth and freshen your breath. Wait several hours between eating to keep your teeth in optimal condition.
- Skip brushing and rinse instead
It may seem like a good idea to brush right after every indulgence, but experts agree that cleaning your teeth immediately after eating a starchy or sugary snack can do more harm than good. Your tooth enamel is in it’s softest state while it is under attack from the acids in your mouth. Waiting 15-20 minutes after eating to brush will allow your enamel to harden before cleaning. We recommend simply rinsing your mouth with water after eating. Rinsing your mouth helps the saliva to neutralize the PH levels inside your mouth and wash away bacteria.
- Practice good oral hygiene
As always, you should brush twice a day. Be sure that you are brushing your teeth gently, with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brushing too hard can scour away tooth enamel or damage your gums. Tooth brushing should take about two or three minutes every morning and night, and you should follow your brushing with a thorough flossing at least once per day. Always go to bed with clean teeth to avoid exposing your teeth to acids all night long.
- Drink plenty of H20
One of the easiest ways to prevent cavities is by drinking water; especially water with fluoride. Fluoride is nature’s cavity fighter, and saliva is your body’s own way of fighting cavities. By merely drinking water, you are helping your body wash away food, and keeping your teeth and healthy. Drinking water is one of the most accessible and most beneficial things you can do to help reduce your risk of tooth decay. Also remember to limit fizzy drinks during the Easter festivities and stick to H20.
- Visit the Dentist
After the Easter bunny has been and gone and the Easter egg wrappers are the only evidence of your yearly indulgences, you may want to make appointments for the whole family at the dentist for a clean and check-up.
By using these simple tips and making them a part of your daily dental hygiene habits, you can have beautiful, healthy teeth and enjoy the sweet treats of Easter and every other chocolate-filled holiday too.
Call us today to book your post Easter check- up and clean and enjoy a guilt free Easter from the team at Mingara Dental.
HAPPY EASTER!