The holidays are filled with festive meals, sweet treats, and indulgent traditions—many of which aren’t exactly friendly to your teeth. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying your seasonal favorites, being aware of the risks can help you avoid cracked teeth, cavities, and other emergencies during this busy time of year. Here are some of the most common holiday foods that can cause dental trouble and how to enjoy them more safely.
Sticky Sweets Can Linger on Your Teeth
Caramels, toffees, gumdrops, and other sticky candies are everywhere during the holidays. Unfortunately, these treats cling to the surface of your teeth and settle into crevices, creating the perfect environment for cavity-causing bacteria. Since sticky sweets are harder for your saliva to wash away, they stay in your mouth longer than other foods.
If you do indulge, try to enjoy them alongside a full meal rather than snacking on them throughout the day. Drinking water afterward can help rinse away some of the residue until you can brush.
Hard Candies Can Cause Chips or Cracks
Peppermint sticks, candy canes, and other hard sweets are festive, but they can also be rough on your enamel. Biting down on something hard can cause tiny fractures or even break a tooth entirely. These candies also dissolve slowly, coating your teeth with sugar for an extended period.
To protect your smile, allow hard candies to dissolve instead of chewing them. If you have sensitive teeth, fillings, or crowns, it may be better to skip them altogether.
Sugary Baked Goods Increase Cavity Risk
Holiday baking often means cakes, pies, cookies, and pastries at every gathering. While delicious, these treats tend to be high in sugar and starches, which feed harmful bacteria in the mouth. Eating multiple sugary snacks throughout the day increases your risk of tooth decay.
You don’t need to avoid them completely—just try to keep portions small and pair them with a glass of water. Brushing after dessert can also make a big difference in protecting your enamel.
Acidic Drinks Can Weaken Enamel
Seasonal beverages like mulled wine, sparkling cider, champagne, and citrus-based cocktails are popular this time of year. However, their acidity can soften your enamel, making it more vulnerable to erosion and sensitivity. When combined with sugar, the potential for damage increases.
It’s best to sip acidic drinks slowly and alternate with water. Using a straw when appropriate can also help reduce direct contact with your teeth.
Crunchy Snacks May Damage Restorations
Bowls of nuts, nut brittles, and crunchy snack mixes are holiday staples, but they come with their own risks. Biting into hard pieces can strain your teeth and dental work, potentially loosening fillings or cracking crowns.
If you enjoy nuts, choose shelled options so you’re not tempted to crack them with your teeth. Take your time chewing and avoid anything overly hard or sticky in the same sitting.
With a little awareness and moderation, you can enjoy your holiday favorites without harming your smile.
About the Practice
At Mariya Barnett, DDS, patients receive the care they deserve to keep their smiles healthy year-round. Our practice offers preventive services, restorative dentistry, and emergency treatments for unexpected dental issues. If you experience a dental emergency during the holidays, our team is ready to help.
Call us at (469) 874-0469 or request an appointment online.