12 days of dental tips for a beautiful smile this Christmas

The festive season is upon us! It’s easy to see why so many people look forward to it – Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and yes, indulgence. It’s that last one which can sometimes end up causing problems for our teeth. From sugary treats to late-night gatherings, maintaining your oral health can be tricky, especially when a family member proffers you that biscuit tin once again.

So to help you keep your smile radiant, we’ve put together 12 essential dental tips for this Christmas season to ensure your teeth remain merry and bright. Lyrically, we suppose it doesn’t scan quite as well as the original, but it’s arguably more important to remember!

On the first day of Christmas… start your day with a proper brush!

The foundation of any good dental routine starts with proper brushing. Take two full minutes to brush your teeth each morning, focusing on all surfaces of the teeth and along the gumline. Make sure to angle your brush at 45 degrees towards the gumline for the best results. Using a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer can help you stay consistent.

On the second day of Christmas… replace old toothbrushes!

A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning your teeth, so make sure you replace yours regularly. Generally, this should be every three to four months, or even sooner if the bristles are frayed. Bacteria can also build up on old brushes, which reduces their effectiveness. If you’ve been unwell with something more serious – for example a long-term chest infection – replacing your toothbrush or brush head immediately is a good idea, as it can help to avoid reintroducing germs to your system.

On the third day of Christmas… choose the right toothpaste!

Your toothpaste plays a crucial role in your oral health. Fluoride is often found in toothpaste, as it’s particularly useful for strengthening enamel and preventing decay. Whitening toothpastes are great for lifting surface stains, but if you have sensitivity issues, it’s a good idea to take your time looking for a toothpaste designed to soothe your teeth. Similarly, for kids, it’s obviously best to ensure they’re using age-appropriate toothpaste with the right fluoride levels for their needs.

On the fourth day of Christmas… use dental floss!

Many people neglect flossing, but it’s absolutely vital to removing plaque and debris from between your teeth where your brush can’t reach. Flossing once a day keeps your gums healthy and helps to prevent tooth decay. Interdental brushes are a brilliant option if you have larger gaps between your teeth. As with so many of these types of things, the key is consistency – it’s all about finding a method you’ll stick with, and make it part of your routine.

On the fifth day of Christmas… avoid too much sugar!

Sugary foods and drinks are a hallmark of the season, but overindulging can harm your teeth. Sticky sweets like toffee and caramels are especially problematic as they cling to the teeth, feeding bacteria. One particularly tricky thing at Christmas – but still worth doing – is to try to enjoy sweets during meals, rather than throughout the day. This is because your saliva is more active during meals, and can help wash away sugars.

On the sixth day of Christmas… snack smarter this season!

Festive treats are hard to resist, but some snacks are kinder to your teeth than others. Cheese, nuts, and raw vegetables are all tooth-friendly options that promote saliva production and don’t cling to your teeth like sugary snacks do. If you’re at a party, choose a cheese board over sugary nibbles and follow it up with some crunchy vegetables for a natural cleanse.

On the seventh day of Christmas… rinse after meals!

A quick rinse can help minimise plaque buildup and keep your breath fresh. Mouthwash is the preferred option, but plain water works just as well if you’re out and about. The main thing to avoid is rinsing with water immediately after brushing (as many people do!). Leaving it for a few moments essentially allows the fluoride in your toothpaste to work its magic for maximum benefit. In fact, for extra protection, consider a fluoride-based mouthwash in your daily routine.

On the eighth day of Christmas… chew sugar-free gum!

Sugar-free gum is an excellent option for your teeth all year round, and especially so during the festive season. This is because it stimulates saliva production, which neutralises acids and helps to protect your enamel. If you can, choose gum with Xylitol – it’s a natural sweetener that actively reduces the bacteria responsible for cavities. Popping a piece after a meal is an easy way to freshen your breath and support your smile.

On the ninth day of Christmas… keep gums healthy!

Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. You already know that regular brushing and flossing are essential for gum health, but it’s equally important to watch for warning signs such as bleeding, redness, or swelling. Gums should look pink and firm, so if something seems off, book an appointment with your dentist promptly. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget that healthy gums support not just your teeth, but also your overall oral health.

On the tenth day of Christmas… drink more water!

As well as being good for your overall health, hydration is vital for your teeth too. Water helps rinse away food particles and reduces the impact of sugars and acids on your enamel. If you’re enjoying mulled wine or hot chocolate, take a few sips of water afterwards to neutralise the acids. Tap water with fluoride offers an added bonus for strengthening your teeth.

On the eleventh day of Christmas… book a professional cleaning!
The Christmas season is a great time to book a dental or hygienist appointment to ensure your teeth are in top shape. A professional clean removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t, leaving your teeth polished and your mouth feeling fresh. It’s also a chance to discuss any dental concerns you may have before the new year begins.

On the twelfth day of Christmas… smile confidently this Christmas!

Your smile is your best accessory this season, so don’t be afraid to show it off. Keep a travel-sized toothbrush or some sugar-free mints handy for quick freshen-ups before gatherings. Confidence in your smile often comes from good habits, so take a moment to focus on your oral hygiene before heading out to celebrations. A genuine smile can light up any room!

Ultimately, trust your instincts – if you think you might be going a bit overboard (even by Christmas standards), then chances are it’s best to back off for a bit. Everything in moderation is the best way to have a wonderful Christmas!

And of course if you have any oral heath related questions, we’ll be able to give you the answers you need and help you look after your smile. That’s what we do best! At AP Smilecare, we’re passionate about taking care of teeth and providing top tier dental treatments tailored specifically to each patient, so your smile gets the care it deserves. From braces to implants and teeth-whitening and gum health – we do it all! If you have any questions regarding our treatments or you want to book an appointment – get in touch with our friendly team via 01254 297 000 or pop into our Blackburn clinic and we’ll be more than happy to help!