Dental
The holiday season is full of festive gatherings, sparkling lights, and yes—those spontaneous mistletoe moments. Whether you’re sharing a kiss with a long-time partner or hoping for a magical first kiss, the last thing you want is dental issues like bad breath or stained teeth getting in the way. Keeping your smile fresh and healthy can give you an extra boost of confidence during the holidays. Here are 4 tips to ensure poor oral hygiene doesn’t spoil your next mistletoe moment.
1. Prioritize Consistent Brushing and Flossing
When holiday schedules get hectic, oral hygiene routines are often the first to slip. But brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential for keeping plaque, bacteria, and food particles from building up. Without consistent care, these can quickly lead to bad breath, gum irritation, and dull-looking teeth. Make brushing part of your morning and nighttime rituals—even if you’re traveling or staying up late. If you’re on the go, pack a travel toothbrush or floss picks so you can freshen up wherever the season takes you.
2. Stay Hydrated to Keep Breath Fresh
Cold weather, holiday treats, and alcohol can all contribute to dry mouth, which is a major cause of bad breath. Saliva plays a crucial role in washing away bacteria and neutralizing acids, so when your mouth is dry, odors can become more noticeable. Drinking water throughout the day helps keep your mouth moist and clean. Try sipping water between holiday cocktails, while shopping, or after meals. Sugar-free mints or gum with xylitol can also stimulate saliva and keep your breath feeling fresh.
3. Watch Out for Holiday Foods That Linger
Some seasonal favorites—like garlic dips, onion-heavy sides, sugary baked goods, and mulled wine—tend to stick around on your breath or stain your teeth. You don’t have to avoid them entirely, but consider enjoying them in moderation if you know you’ll be under the mistletoe later. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating helps reduce lingering odors and pigment. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples or carrots, also act as natural cleansers to keep your smile bright.
4. Schedule a Pre-Holiday Dental Cleaning
If you really want to go into the season with a fresh, confident smile, a professional cleaning can make all the difference. Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing alone can’t tackle, helping to eliminate bad breath and brighten your teeth. Plus, catching any small dental issues early prevents discomfort during holiday events.
With just a little preparation, you can make sure your oral hygiene supports every merry—and mistletoe-worthy—moment this season.
About the Author
Dr. Wesley Parks has been practicing dentistry for more than 2 full decades. He graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center with his dental degree and has since amassed hundreds of hours in continuing education, with a focus on dental implant restoration. Dr. Parks is also a current member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. If you need preventive dental care, schedule an appointment online or call (402) 484-6042.