There are some things that the pandemic can’t take away from us and one of those things is the holidays! No matter what, when or how you celebrate, the holiday season is upon us and while things might look a little different this year, the holidays are happening! It’s time to get in the spirit and make the best of December. The team here at Brinkley Dental is also pretty sure that you’ll agree we all need to find a way to celebrate New Year’s Eve this year – if for no other reason than to “kick 2020 to the curb!”
While the holidays are happening and can be lots of fun, we do urge you not to forget about all your oral health care needs. Now is not the time to abandon your teeth! Particularly in this typically sugary season; when we indulge in a little extra chocolate, desserts and, if you’re an adult, perhaps a cocktail or two, it’s more important than ever to follow a good oral health care routine and to ensure your children do too. Some tips we’ve shared in the past but that always stand the test of time include:
- Brushing after every meal.
- If you can’t always brush, drink water after eating and use the opportunity to “swish and swirl” to help loosen food particles that might otherwise get stuck, potentially causing longer term damage to your teeth.
- Some Dentists recommend a sugar-free chewing gum for the same reason, pulling particles of food away before plaque building begins. Plus – it will help freshen your breath after all that holiday indulging!
- Rinse with mouthwash if that option is available to you. We’d recommend carrying pocket or purse sized mouthwash but in these pandemic times remind you to be extra careful it doesn’t get confused with your hand sanitizer!
- Flossing is a good idea. There was some debate not too long ago about the benefits of flossing but we like to think it’s always a good idea. Keep it up!
During these trying times, we have some other suggestions for the upcoming holiday season. We know that the holidays are typically a time for celebrating with family and friends and that not all of us will be able to do so. Don’t let that limit your imagination however, or your charitable endeavors if you’re able to support others during this difficult year. Thinking outside of the box, even for those on a limited budget this year, here are some things to consider:
- If you’re able, donate to a local food bank and please go ahead and include toothpaste and toothbrushes. These kinds of items are always needed and rarely donated. Help promote goodwill and good oral hygiene. Shelters are also a good place to drop off new toothbrushes and other oral care items.
- If the holidays are smaller scale in your house due to budget constraints, focus on some other fun activities like baking and building a gingerbread house, designating a special night each week to watch holiday movies with homemade popcorn or setting aside some family time for games night.
- If you’re able, have your children participate in the process of choosing a gift to donate, helping them learn the importance of charity at an early age.
- Can’t visit Santa? Arrange a virtual visit. There are a number of options available to choose from online to visit virtually with the big guy at the North Pole.
- Maintain the traditions of your home as much as possible – even if not all family members will be present. Write that letter to Santa, light the Menorah candles, cut down or select a tree from a local supplier while practicing social distancing. Keeping things as familiar as possible, even on a smaller scale, will help children cope with the things that do look different this year.
- Pile in the car and take a drive around your neighbourhood to look at the lights. Go a little farther and check out what your community has to offer. Brampton does an amazing job with lights at Gage Park and City Hall, we’re confidant your community does too. Plan a route, take some hot chocolate in a thermos and maybe consider getting out and taking a walk too.
- Start new traditions! If you’ve ever thought to yourself “I wish I had more time,” or “I wish we could stay home this holiday season,” now is your chance. You’ll have no choice so look at this as a blessing and plan for something new to do with your family.
The team at Brinkley Dental is grateful for the opportunity of another year of serving all your family’s dental needs. It’s been challenging and we missed you for a few months this year but welcomed you back with even more stringent sanitization and safety measures. We will continue to exceed expectations when it comes to all of your oral health care needs in 2021 and beyond. However you celebrate the season – please enjoy it responsibly! Happy Holidays and as always: “don’t forget to be a BFF with your mouth and brush that smile!”
