You can already feel Christmas in the air at our clinic in Vélez-Málaga. It’s a time of smiles, get-togethers and tables full of treats, but it’s also a risky time for your oral health. Changes to your routine and all that extra sugar can take their toll if we’re not careful.
At Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero, we want you to enjoy the festive season without any unexpected trips to the dentist. Here’s our quick guide to our Christmas dental tips, so your smile shines as brightly as the fairy lights. 👇
1. The turrón dilemma: hard or soft? 🍫
Sweets take centre stage, but watch how you eat them:
- Hard turrón (Alicante style): The risk here is chipped or broken teeth. Don’t use your front teeth to bite it; break it up with your hands and chew with your back teeth.
- Soft turrón and candied fruit: These are very sticky and cling to the enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Try to brush as soon as possible after eating them.
- Chocolate: If you can, go for dark chocolate. It contains less sugar and has antioxidant properties.
2. Drinks and stains: the water trick 🍷
Red wine, cava and fizzy drinks can stain your enamel or increase sensitivity because of their acidity.
- The golden rule: Alternate glasses of water with your drinks. Water balances the pH in your mouth, stimulates saliva and helps “rinse away” pigments and sugars.
3. Don’t give your toothbrush a holiday 🪥
We know long lunches and dinners tend to drag on, but going to bed without brushing is a big mistake. With all that extra sugar, the bacteria are having a party too.
- Tip: If you’re eating out in Torre del Mar, take a travel kit. If you can’t brush, rinse with water or chew xylitol gum to stimulate saliva.
4. Take extra care if you wear braces or aligners 😬
- With braces: Steer clear of very hard or sticky sweets (nut brittle, toffee) to avoid brackets coming loose.
- With Invisalign: Remember to take out your Invisalign clear aligners to eat and drink (except water). And most importantly: don’t wrap them in a napkin! It’s the easiest way to lose them. Always keep them in their case.
5. Sensitive to cold? ❄️
Low temperatures and ice-cold drinks can cause discomfort if you have sensitive teeth. Try breathing through your nose to warm the air before it reaches your teeth, and consider using a desensitising toothpaste over these weeks.
Look after your smile this Christmas and enjoy the festivities in Vélez-Málaga 🤝
From all of us at Clínica Dental Acosta Cubero, led by Dr Inmaculada Acosta, we wish you a very happy festive season. Enjoy yourself, eat well and laugh a lot, but don’t forget your daily oral hygiene.
If anything unexpected comes up or you’d like to get your mouth in shape before the holidays, book an appointment: we’re here to look after you in Vélez-Málaga.
Merry Christmas and a happy New Year full of healthy smiles! 🎄✨