DENTIST TO CELEBRITIES DR RICHARD MARQUES GIVES THE TOP 10 TIPS FOR PERFECT TEETH THIS PARTY SEASON
- We’re all guilty of indulging in sweet treats at Christmas, but sugar produces acids that harmful bacteria feed on creating plaque, so wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth to give the enamel a chance to recover.
- If you enjoy a glass of bubbly or two, drink through a biodegradable straw so that the liquid bypasses the teeth. This will help reduce the build-up of harmful acids
- If you’d rather not use a straw, a little hack is to rub some petroleum jelly on the surface of your teeth that will act as a barrier and help protect the enamel!
- Chew on some sugar-free gum for a quick-fix to freshen breath. Just be careful not to use this in place of brushing or rinsing as it won’t eliminate odour causing bacteria.
- Give teeth a polish with some charcoal toothpaste or powder for extra sparkle. It doesn’t absorb into the teeth so they will always look whiter after use, and despite being black in colour, will leave no dark stains.
- Many of us enjoy a festive cheese board, but be careful not to eat too much dairy. Calcium (found in milk) is great for teeth but can also create an unpleasant smell which can escape through the mouth.
- Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water to avoid dry mouth and take sips when drinking alcohol or eating coloured foods to help wash away stains before they start to set.
- Make sure you’ve seen your dentist for a check-up so that any underlying problems are detected early and you’re not faced with a dental emergency over the holidays that might have been preventable
- Swish some coconut oil around your mouth for 15 minutes. It will help to remove toxins in the body (very helpful in party season!) and is a natural brightener for your teeth.
- Don’t forget to carry dental floss with you to remove any debris trapped between the teeth from Christmas dinner and canapes!
