11/03/2026
The holiday season is right around the corner, bringing plenty of festive treats, busy schedules, and family gatherings. While you are busy planning your holiday checklist, don't forget about your smile!
The holidays can actually put extra stress on your oral health due to constant snacking, sticky sweets, acidic holiday drinks, and disrupted daily routines.
Why Your Teeth Need Extra Care Right Now:
• More Sugar and Acid: Holiday cookies, candy canes, pies, and festive drinks feed oral bacteria, producing acid that can erode enamel and cause cavities.
• Disrupted Routines: Late-night gatherings, travel, and busy schedules make it easy to accidentally skip brushing and flossing.
• Higher Risk of Damage: Using your teeth as tools to open packages, tags, or bottles can easily lead to chipped or cracked teeth.
• End-of-Year Benefits: Most traditional dental insurance plans, FSAs, and HSAs do not roll over unused benefits into the new year. It's a true "use-it-or-lose-it" situation!
Tips for a Healthy Holiday Smile:
• Stick to the Basics: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes and floss daily. Pack a travel dental kit if you are on the go.
• Drink Plenty of Water: Sip water between treats and holiday drinks to wash away sugars and keep your mouth hydrated.
• Use Tools, Not Teeth: Keep scissors or bottle openers handy for opening gifts and packages.
Need an appointment before the holidays? Don't wait until an emergency happens or your yearly benefits expire on December 31st! Call Wilkes Public Health Dental Clinic at (336) 903-9399 today to schedule your routine checkup or cleaning.
Holiday Hours Alert:
Please plan ahead! We will be closed November 26th and 27th, and December 18th – 25th. Be sure to book your appointment before these closures to ensure your smile is healthy and bright for the holidays!
