Indulging in your sweet tooth this Diwali? These oral health tips can be handy
Diwali is that time of the year when everyone indulges in festive treats. It is the time when we let our inhibitions loose to enjoy every moment. However, all this excessive eating and drinking can take its toll on our teeth, and can further cause tooth sensitivity, caries and other oral health-related problems. But it doesn’t always have to be an either-or situation. One does not need to avoid sweets and desserts in this festive time, but instead follow a few simple steps and measures that can make feasting even more enjoyable :
1. A sweet tooth needs special care
You can never imagine Diwali without mithais and other sweet treats, but these may sometimes give a short sharp twinge on your tooth. This could be sensitivity. Worry not! Just a simple switch to a special tooth sensitivity toothpaste can enable you to enjoy these treats without worrying about sensitivity.
2. Let the sweets come first
Sweets are sticky and that leads to tooth decay. That may also present itself as sensitive teeth. At times, even rinsing the mouth is not sufficient to get rid of the sugary remains in the mouth. Eating sweets and desserts prior to having the main meal would help in reducing the risk of the sweets staying stuck to the teeth.
3. Stay away from coloured foods
Diwali might be a colorful festival, but it doesn’t necessarily apply to your food. Avoid foods that are high on artificial coloUring and preservatives. They stain your teeth and the acids in the preservatives promote bacteria. If you feel that your teeth are stained and you want to keep them away, you could switch to a whitening toothpaste. These are readily available in the market.
4. Drink a lot of water
Keep yourself hydrated. Drink a lot of water and fresh juices at short intervals. You must particularly drink a lot of water before consuming snacks and meals. This gives you a feeling of fullness and prevents you from overindulging in snacks. Also, drink water after meals as it helps flush off the food residue, cleans your mouth and avoids plaque formation on your teeth.
5. Twice a day, everyday
While you treat yourselves to mithais and chocolates, don’t forget to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, so that the sugary components don’t remain stuck on your teeth for a long period.