Dakota Dental Clinic Suggests Preventative Strategies to Protect Teeth During the Holidays

Apple Valley, MN, December 19, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Dakota Dental Apple Valley Dentistry is wishing the community a happy holiday season while reminding individuals of simple strategies to prevent dental damage from holiday celebrations that could linger throughout the new year.

“Whether it’s the platter of holiday cookies and fudge, or the alcoholic beverages served at social gatherings, the holiday season can place an extra strain on dental and oral health,” says, Apple Valley dentist, Dr. Shelley Wakefield. “Fortunately, with some understanding and a few preventative strategies, people can enjoy holiday celebrations while greatly reducing the negative effect on their teeth. While people are aware that sugary foods promote tooth decay, many don’t understand the connection between alcohol and dental health.”

Saliva helps to protect teeth from tooth decay. Alcohol has a drying effect within the mouth, which can remove the protection normally provided by the production of saliva. Alcoholic drinks (including beer) tend to be high in sugars that can damage teeth. In addition, sweet wines and drinks mixed with sodas or citrus juices have high acidity which promotes erosion of tooth enamel.

Along with moderate, responsible drinking, Dakota Dental Family Dentistry recommends the following to prevent damage to teeth: Always brush and floss well before going to bed – regardless of how late the hour. Drink a full glass of water and swish to rehydrate the mouth after drinking an alcoholic beverage. Avoid alcohol within an hour of bed as the mouth naturally dries out during sleep. Chew sugarless gum between holiday cocktails and sweets to help increase saliva production and flow, rinse away sugars and decrease the latent acid content of your mouth. Schedule routine dental services and dental procedures to prevent oral disease.

Apple Valley dentists, Dr. Shelley Wakefield and Dr. Bennett Isabella, promote dental health and awareness by speaking to community organizations and encouraging an understanding of the importance of good oral health and wellness.

Dakota Dental Apple Valley Family Dentistry serves the southern Minneapolis/Saint Paul suburbs. Located in the Pennock Professional Building in Apple Valley, Minnesota, Dakota Dental Center provides comprehensive dental work including, but not limited to, preventative dental services, restorative dental procedures, dental implants, periodontal disease treatment, dentistry for kids, low anxiety dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign and dental emergency services.

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