Don't forget about your oral health during the holidays

Do not let tooth pain fester during the holidays.

Holiday celebrations may look a little different this year but that doesn't mean we won't be indulging in our usual favourite treats!

And as we enjoy all the festive treats the season has to offer, oral health care should be at the top of our mind says dental hygiene clinical professor Alexandra Sheppard.

"Even if we are following health safety regulations for gatherings at this time, we are still snacking and eating sweets at home," she says. "Be mindful of when you eat. Snacking on a candy cane slowly throughout the day will expose your teeth longer to acid."

Continuing a normal routine of oral care - especially before bed - will help keep cavities at bay and problems from arising says Sheppard. Using floss or an interdental brush at night is important to help get the food stuck in-between teeth.

"Acid exposure continues throughout the night if we don't brush our teeth especially if we are consuming alcohol or wine," says Sheppard. "It's important to make sure we don't brush our teeth right after drinking wine either. Our teeth are exposed and brushing will move the acid around. Wait a little first. Drink plenty of water. Water helps keeps your mouth clean and it removes debris."

But most important of all, be aware of any dental pain or discomfort says Sheppard. Delaying dental treatment will only make the situation worse.

"You don't want any pain to fester and become unmanageable when it can easily be treated," she says. "Don't be afraid to come in."