
The holiday season is full of festive flavors — from rich hot cocoa to creamy eggnog, spiced cider, and holiday cocktails. While these drinks add cheer to gatherings, they can also pose a risk to your teeth. Sugary beverages and acidic drinks can weaken enamel, trigger sensitivity, and increase your chances of cavities. But with a few smart strategies, you can enjoy your favorite seasonal sips without compromising your oral health.
Sip Smarter This Holiday Season
1. Rethink Sugar Levels
Many holiday drinks are loaded with sugar, which feeds cavity-causing bacteria. Try reducing added syrups, using unsweetened cocoa, or swapping sugar for natural sweeteners.
2. Use a Straw
For acidic or sugary beverages like eggnog or holiday cocktails, drinking through a straw helps limit contact with your teeth, reducing the risk of enamel erosion.
3. Rinse or Hydrate with Water
After enjoying a festive drink, rinse your mouth with water or take a sip to help wash away sugars and acids. This helps protect your teeth and freshen your breath.
4. Space Out Treats
Rather than sipping on sugary drinks throughout the day, enjoy them in one sitting. Continuous exposure increases cavity risk, while occasional enjoyment allows saliva to neutralize acids and protect enamel.
5. Don’t Skip Your Oral Care Routine
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily — especially during the holidays when indulgence is common. Professional cleanings can also help remove surface stains and protect enamel.
Make This Holiday Season Sweet for Your Smile
With a little mindfulness, you don’t have to sacrifice holiday cheer to protect your teeth. Enjoy seasonal favorites in moderation, take steps to protect enamel, and maintain a consistent oral care routine.
For professional guidance and personalized dental care, contact Rancho Bernardo Family Dental Care today at rbdentalcare@yahoo.com or call 858-385-1838 to schedule an appointment. Your smile deserves to shine this holiday season and beyond!
Dr John, with over 30 years of experience. I went to the University of San Diego (USD) and received a bachelor's in chemistry. I earned my DMD graduating in the top 10% of my class from Boston University. I then continued on to a residency program in advanced education in general dentistry (AEDG) earning a certificate of advanced Dentistry (CAGS). I joined the Navy a year after finishing my residency. My Advanced degrees placed me in positions of higher responsibility and Leadership. After my honorable discharge , I practiced in the private sector in Tierrasanta for 13 years. Primarily caring to Navy families and their children.
I then opened my own practice 13 years ago in Rancho Bernardo acquiring the most modern equipment available, while retaining that small town sense of individual attention, that seems to be lost in the corporate dental offices.
Dr Ng, received her bachelors of science in Biology. She then received her DDS from University of the Pacific, San Francisco with high honors and an emphasis on general dentistry. She enjoys traveling and doing volunteer work. Her goal is to give back to the community that has given so much. She hopes to not only inspire her patients to have a healthier smile but to also lead healthier lives. Her free time is spent hiking, scuba diving and yoga.
Earned two AS Degrees in science at Mesa College, then completed the hygiene program at San Joaquin Valley College. She works full time as a dental hygienist and enjoys reading, hiking, running and outdoor activities with her two sons.