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The Brush Up

    Keeping Patients Happy and Healthy Over the Holidays

    The end of the year is synonymous with food, drink, friends, and family. It can also be a busy and stressful time of year for many, scrambling from last minute holiday gift shopping to checking off those end-of-year to-do lists and tasks that have been victims of procrastination – including dentist appointments.
     

    In fact, a survey by the American Dental Association earlier this year showed 71% dentists reporting higher rates of bruxism and cracked teeth, leading to more root canals — a result of pandemic-induced stress, teeth grinding, and delayed preventive care that could catch tooth decay sooner.
     
    As patients come into the dental office toward the end of the year, the holiday season can serve as an ideal time to talk to patients about the importance of getting back on track with preventative care in the new year. One way to start that conversation is by making it fun, approachable, and easy to remember.
     
    Here are some fun facts about the oral health science behind some of our favorite holiday indulgences that may surprise and delight patients, while opening up a broader conversation about oral hygiene.
     

    • The benefits of red wine: While people have heard about red wine’s benefits to heart health, they may be surprised about its oral health benefits. Studies have shown that the antioxidant properties in red wine seem to prevent the bacteria which causes tooth decay from sticking to saliva and teeth. And research conducted at Cornell University found chemicals in grape seeds and red wine that help limit inflammation caused by gingivitis. Limiting inflammation may also protect against periodontal disease.

    • The hidden risks of white wine: Some studies show that acid in white wines may erode enamel, the protective layer of your teeth, making teeth more sensitive to cold, hot and sweet foods. And while staining is more commonly associated with red wine, studies show that white wine actually has an acid content that tends to increase the risk of dark dental stains if you also drink tea or similar beverages. If they’re more of a whiskey than wine person, patients may be interested to know that lighter or clear spirits can help them avoid higher sugar contents. However, mixing clear alcohol with sugary juices or soda can negate that factor.

    • Snacks and sweet treats: Good food choices at a cocktail party include crunchy fruits and vegetables. These have a higher water content, which can help to dilute the effects of the sugars. They also stimulate the flow of saliva, which helps protect against tooth decay. Foods like cheese, poultry, meats, and nuts are high in calcium and phosphorus, which studies show can help remineralize tooth enamel.
     
    Patients are used to dentists talking about the importance of brushing and flossing, so this holiday season, consider sharing a fun fact that can lead to a broader conversation about the importance of oral hygiene — whether that’s in-person, on social media, or through a newsletter — and talk to them about their oral health. It could be the first step toward a New Year’s Resolution and improved oral health habits for 2022.
     
    To learn more, watch our latest Pearls of Wisdom featuring Dr. Linda Vidone, VP of Clinical Management for Delta Dental of Massachusetts and a practicing dentist, and Dennis Leonard, President and CEO of Delta Dental of Massachusetts.