Why Cavities Are More Common During the Holidays

Dr. Worrell recently visited Woodinville Montessori School, where he spoke with students about what a dentist does, how cavities form, and why our teeth are as important as limbs for everyday function. As he walked them through the basics of keeping teeth clean, he was reminded how essential these fundamentals are for everyone, especially during the holiday season when brushing routines can easily slip.

Holiday sweets and cavity formation

With constant snacking and sugary treats everywhere, cavities can form more easily during holiday celebrations. Sugar-filled treats like candy canes, cookies, fudge, and festive desserts accelerate the formation of holiday sweets and cavities, feeding the bacteria that produce enamel-eroding acids. 

Nighttime brushing is crucial during the holiday season

Late-night parties, travel, and irregular schedules make it easy to fall asleep without brushing. It’s ok, it happens! But the importance of nighttime brushing during the holiday season is huge, plaque and bacteria cause the most damage while you sleep, giving them hours to weaken enamel.

Holiday travel affecting brushing habits

Travel disrupts even the best routines. Forgetting toothbrushes, late arrivals, or long days on the road can affect brushing habits and cavity development. When brushing is skipped or delayed, plaque has more opportunity to harden into tartar and increase decay risk.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Teeth This Season

• Brush twice daily, no matter how busy your schedule becomes
  
  
• Floss once a day to remove plaque between teeth
  
  
• Drink water between sugary foods and drinks to help wash away acids
  
  
• Chew sugar-free gum after meals to boost saliva and protect enamel
  
  
• Schedule a post-holiday dental cleaning to remove any tartar that has formed

The holidays may be busy, but your teeth still need daily care. Stay consistent with brushing and flossing to keep cavities away this season, and if you’re due for a cleaning, schedule a pre-holiday appointment to set you up for success. Schedule Here. 

By Maryam Zarrabi