6 Ways to Keep Your Smile Bright This Holiday Season

Smile-Friendly Stocking Stuffers

Your stocking forecast this year will almost certainly include a dusting of sugar. (The National Confectioners Association says 77% of people include candy in holiday gifts.) Giving candy? Consider chocolate. It washes off your teeth more easily than stickier sweets like candy canes. And when you’re stuffing those stockings full of chocolate Santas, don’t forget to include an ADA-Accepted toothbrush or toothpaste!

Carol While You Clean Your Teeth

One of the easiest ways to brush for a full two minutes twice a day is to listen to a song that’s two minutes long. This season, create a playlist of your family’s favorite holiday music for a holly, jolly brushing bonanza. (And you’ll definitely make Santa’s nice list if you add a song to floss to.)

Don’t Open Gifts with Your Teeth

Grandma may be an expert gift wrapper, but don’t use your teeth to try to undo the Fort Knox knots she’s tied with ribbon. Your teeth were made for eating, not to stand in as a pair of scissors. If you do, you could crack a tooth, injure your jaw or accidentally swallow something you shouldn’t. Stop and find something or someone to give you a hand instead.

Hosting Houseguests?

Nothing says “welcome” more than a personalized gift basket on your guest’s nightstand. Include fun items like cozy socks and their favorite snacks. You can also stock them up on travel-size toiletries they might have left behind -- including a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Whiten Your Teeth in 30 Seconds or Less

Dreaming of a white smile for your family photo? Wear a red or a pink lipstick with a blue undertone. Thanks to how the eye sees these colors, your teeth will instantly look whiter and brighter.

Stick to Your Routine

Between holiday parties, travel and other holiday happenings, it’s easy to slip out of your normal habits. Don’t wait until New Year’s to make your dental health a priority again. If you have a regular dental visit scheduled, keep the appointment. And don’t forget to brush twice a day for two minutes and clean between your teeth once a day.