With Thanksgiving just around the corner, your mouth may be watering in anticipation of the feast. Are your teeth ready for the big day? While there are no special advance preparations for the holiday dinner, you may want to keep a few basic dental tips in mind to keep your teeth in great condition. If you haven’t done so recently, consult our local Monroe dentist office for tips.
Get cavities filled ahead of time.
If any of your teeth have been bothering you, schedule an exam with a general dentist to see what’s causing the problem. If you have a cavity, get it filled before the holiday meal so you can enjoy every succulent dish at dinnertime. Some people have a bad tooth that needs pulled but delay it indefinitely. It’s better to have the dentist pull the tooth so you can enjoy the holiday celebration in comfort.
Have your teeth whitened.
With company coming or if you will be visiting elsewhere, ask if the general dentist can whiten your teeth professionally. Often it can be done in a matter of minutes, and the after-effect will make you feel like a million dollars. Whiter teeth can make you look younger and more attractive, so set up your appointment a few days before Turkey Day for a professional teeth cleaning.
Brush, chew, or rinse between meals.
Some people will be having dinner at more than one location due to family being spread out or the need to visit in-laws, too. If you’ll be eating or snacking much of the day, take a few minutes to protect your teeth. Brush morning and night at the very least, and if possible, after eating large meals. If brushing is inconvenient, sneak into the bathroom and rinse your mouth with clear water or mouthwash. A third option is to chew sugarless gum, which helps to remove debris from hard-to-reach places in the teeth. Give your teeth an extra thorough brushing that night.
When the holiday is over, contact our dentist in Monroe, NC to request a teeth cleaning if you didn’t get one before the big day. This is the perfect time to remove stains as you get ready for the Christmas holiday season with all its festivities. It’s amazing how much help your dentist can be around the holidays!