The Sweet Side of the Holidays Can Sour Quickly

Holiday treats are everywhere: school parties, family dinners, candy-filled stockings. While these traditions are part of the fun, they can take a toll on children’s teeth. Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, which creates acid and leads to cavities. Combine that with changes in routines, skipped brushing, and winter snacking, and your child’s smile might need more attention than usual.

At Glenmore Park Dental, we believe prevention is the best gift you can give your family this season. A little planning now can help avoid post-holiday toothaches, sensitivity, or even emergency dental visits in January. 

Tips for Protecting Kids’ Teeth During the Holidays

1. Keep a Routine (Even When the Schedule Isn’t Routine) 

Late nights, travel, and school breaks often mean brushing routines fall apart. Try to keep regular brushing and flossing habits in your child’s routine, especially after sticky or sugary snacks. Part of your child’s routine should also include regular dental checkups. Tartar builds in the hard-to-reach areas in-between your teeth, and despite rigorous brushing and flossing, the tartar can remain.  

2. Be Mindful of the Worst Offenders 

Not all sweets are created equal. Hard candies, sticky toffees, and sugary gum can crack teeth, get stuck in crevices, and cling to enamel. Opt for softer treats or chocolate that melts away more easily.

3. Don’t Skip Water 

Encourage your child to drink water throughout the day, especially after meals and snacks. Water helps wash away sugars and acids and keeps the mouth hydrated in Calgary’s dry winter air.

4. Time It Right 

It’s better to eat sweets with meals instead of snacking all day. Saliva production increases during meals, which helps neutralize acid and rinse away food particles more effectively.

5. Schedule a Post-Holiday Checkup 

Start the new year with a clean slate. Booking a winter pediatric checkup or hygiene appointment at Glenmore Park Dental helps remove plaque, check for early signs of cavities, and reset healthy habits.

6. Be Prepared for Dental Emergencies 

Accidents can happen: biting a hard candy or slipping on the ice can lead to chipped teeth or pain. If your child experiences a dental injury or sudden toothache, we offer emergency dental care and can help right away. 

Keep Their Smiles Bright Into the New Year

Your child deserves to enjoy the holidays without discomfort or dental problems. A few small habits can make a big difference, and we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you’re in Marda Loop, Glenbrook, Lakeview, Glamorgan, or Acadia, Glenmore Park Dental offers expert pediatric dental care, hygiene services, and checkups for the whole family.

Contact us to book a holiday-season appointment or post-holiday exam today—because healthy smiles make every celebration better.