5 Ways to Navigate the Holiday’s Holistically (With a Happy & Healthy Smile!)

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and connection. But with all the festivities, it's easy to let our healthy habits slide – especially regarding oral health. At Midwest BioHealth, we believe in a holistic approach to wellness, including your smile! Here are five tips to keep you healthy and happy throughout the holiday season:

1. Mindful Indulgence: Savor the Sweets, Protect Your Teeth

The holidays are synonymous with delicious treats. From cookies and cakes to candies and pies, sugary temptations are everywhere. While it's perfectly fine to indulge, remember that sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth that produce acids, attacking your tooth enamel.

• Practice moderation: Enjoy your favorite treats in reasonable portions.

• Time your treats: Instead of grazing on sweets throughout the day, enjoy them after a main meal when your saliva production is higher, helping to neutralize acids.

• Choose wisely: Opt for treats that clear your mouth quickly, like dark chocolate, instead of sticky candies that cling to your teeth.

• Maintain your routine: Avoid brushing and flossing, especially after consuming sugary treats.

2. Stay Hydrated: Water is Your Holiday Hero

With busy schedules and festive gatherings, it's easy to forget to drink enough water. Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, including your oral health. Water helps wash away food particles, neutralizes acids, and keeps your saliva flowing.

• Carry a water bottle: Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle throughout the day.

• Alternate beverages: At parties, alternate between alcoholic or sugary drinks and water to stay hydrated and minimize sugar intake.

• Choose water-rich foods: Snack on fruits and vegetables with high water content, like cucumbers, celery, and apples.

3. Stress Less, Smile More: Prioritize Self-Care

The holidays can be a stressful time. Stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to oral health issues like gum disease.

• Schedule relaxation: Make time for activities that help you relax, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.

• Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to support your overall health and well-being.

• Don't overcommit: Saying no to events or obligations is okay to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

4. Don't Neglect Your Routine: Consistency is Key

Even with a packed holiday schedule, maintaining your oral hygiene routine is essential.

• Brush twice a day: Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

• Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth, which your toothbrush can't reach.

• Keep up with appointments: Don't skip regular dental checkups and cleanings.

5. Give the Gift of a Healthy Smile: Consider a Holistic Approach

This holiday season, consider giving yourself or a loved one the gift of a holistic approach to oral health. At Midwest BioHealth, Dr. Johnson and his team are committed to providing comprehensive dental care that considers your overall well-being.

• Explore biocompatible dentistry: We use materials that are safe and compatible with your body.

• Discuss your concerns: We take the time to understand your needs and concerns.

• Focus on prevention: We emphasize preventive care to help you maintain optimal oral health.

We all of us at Midwest BioHealth wish you a happy, healthy, and holistic holiday season!