The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and—let’s be honest—a little indulgence. Between candy canes, hot chocolate, and festive desserts, it’s no wonder that teeth might face a little extra wear and tear during this time of year. Fortunately, the Tooth Fairy is here to sprinkle some wisdom on how to keep your smile bright and healthy through the holidays. Here’s a playful yet practical guide to festive dental care, straight from the Tooth Fairy herself.
The Tooth Fairy’s Guide to
Festive Dental Care
Dr. Dean Phan, Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Brush Away the Holiday Sweets
The Tooth Fairy knows how tempting those sugar-laden treats can be, but she also knows the importance of brushing them away. Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially after indulging in holiday goodies.
Stat: According to the American Dental Association (ADA), brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 40%
Tooth Fairy Tip: Use a festive timer (like a holiday-themed sand timer or app) to ensure kids brush for the full two minutes
Don’t Skip Flossing—Even During the Festivities
Flossing might not be on your holiday wish list, but it’s essential for reaching those hard-to-get places between your teeth, especially after feasting on sticky treats like caramel and toffee.
Stat: The CDC reports that only 30% of Americans floss daily, leaving many at risk for gum disease and tooth decay
Tooth Fairy Tip: Create a fun holiday flossing challenge with your family and reward those who stick to it with a special treat—like a sugar-free candy cane!
Hydrate to Keep Your Smile Bright
Between hot cocoa and eggnog, don’t forget to drink water. Staying hydrated helps wash away food particles and neutralizes acids in the mouth, keeping your teeth safe
Stat: The ADA emphasizes that drinking fluoridated water can reduce cavities by up to 25%
Tooth Fairy Tip: Add slices of festive fruits like oranges or cranberries to water for a holiday twist that kids will love.
Stick to a Routine, Even During the Holidays
With late-night celebrations and travel plans, it’s easy to let dental routines slide. However, the Tooth Fairy stresses the importance of consistency to prevent plaque buildup and other oral health issues.
Stat: A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that maintaining consistent oral hygiene routines reduces the likelihood of gum disease by 30%
Tooth Fairy Tip: Pack a travel-sized dental kit for holiday trips so you can maintain routines wherever you go.
Schedule a Post-Holiday Check-Up
After the holiday season, it’s a great idea to visit your dentist for a professional cleaning and check-up. The Tooth Fairy always recommends starting the new year with a fresh and healthy smile.
Stat: Regular dental check-ups can prevent up to 80% of dental problems, according to the CDC
Tooth Fairy Tip: Make the appointment part of your family’s new year tradition and celebrate healthy smiles together.
Final Word from the Tooth Fairy
The holiday season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing dental health. By following these festive tips, you can enjoy all the treats and traditions while keeping your teeth sparkling and strong. After all, the Tooth Fairy loves nothing more than healthy, happy smiles—and a little extra glitter never hurts!
