As the air turns crisp and leaves cover the ground, it’s that time of year when we can embrace seasonal delights like hot chocolate, mulled wine, and sweet treats.

While the autumn and winter months bring joy and festivities, they also demand extra attention to your oral hygiene.

Here are four ways to look after your teeth, enjoy the remainder of 2023 and step into the New Year with a healthy smile:

1. Sweet Treats: Timing Matters

Toffee apples, hot chocolates, and mulled wine share a common trait – their sugary appeal.

If you want to indulge, mealtimes are the right time. During meals, your mouth naturally produces more saliva, which acts as a defence against acidic bacteria, safeguarding your tooth enamel.

2. The Golden Rule: Brush Twice Daily

A fundamental dental practice: brushing your teeth twice daily.

This routine serves as a cornerstone of good oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day helps remove food particles, prevent plaque buildup, and maintain fresh breath. It’s a simple way to ensure the health and cleanliness of your teeth and gums.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drink Water After Eating Sugary Foods

In this sense, drinking water is about more than just keeping hydrated; it rinses away lingering food particles and minimises the duration of sugary substances in your mouth.

This reduces the presence of harmful bacteria and the risk of plaque buildup. Drinking water after eating benefits your overall health and your dental wellness. Water complements your brushing routine – but it doesn’t replace it.

4. Floss and Brush Between

Some seasonal treats can create gaps and hideaways in your mouth. Even if you stick to your twice-daily brushing, these tricky spots can be left vulnerable to bacteria.

Since your toothbrush effectively cleans only about 70% of your teeth, incorporate floss and interdental brushes into your routine. These tools help prevent bacterial buildup and improve your oral hygiene.

If you find that your focus on oral care is decreasing during the autumn and winter months, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our friendly team. Our range of treatments covers everything from routine scaling and polishing to the more extensive treatment of gum disease.

Whatever your dental care needs, Esthetique Dental can craft a personalised treatment plan tailored just for you. Click here to get in touch.