5 Tooth-Friendly Foods to Add to Your Holiday Table
Are you trying to make smarter food choices for your teeth this holiday season? Find out how simple ingredients like cheese, nuts, and leafy greens can protect your smile while you celebrate.
Don't Let a Dental Emergency Ruin Your Holiday Fun
The holidays bring excitement, full schedules, and plenty of moments you want to enjoy without worry. When you celebrate with family and friends, the last thing you want to think about is pain, swelling, or a sudden dental problem that forces you to change your plans.
The experienced pediatric dentists at My Kidz Dentist in Phoenix, Arizona, are here to help your child stay comfortable and protected. When you know what to look for and how to act fast, you can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.
Why kids experience more dental emergencies during the holidays
Between treats, travel, and active play, the holidays create a perfect mix of risk factors for children’s teeth:
- Hard holiday candies can crack or chip a tooth
- Ice-cold drinks may trigger sudden sensitivity
- Excited, fast eating can lead to biting the tongue, cheek, or lip
- Travel schedules may disrupt brushing and flossing routines
- Roughhousing with cousins or friends can result in bumped or loosened teeth
You can lower the risk by reminding your child to avoid chewing hard objects, offering plenty of water, and keeping a small travel-friendly dental kit handy.
How to handle sudden tooth pain in a child
Tooth pain can stop a child in their tracks. If your child says their tooth hurts:
- Have them rinse with warm water
- Check for food debris and gently floss the area if needed
- Apply a cold compress to ease swelling
- Give a child-appropriate pain reliever if recommended by their pediatrician
Then, call our office as soon as possible. Sudden pain can signal an infection, cavity, or injury that needs prompt attention. We’ll help you determine whether your child should come in right away.
What to do if your child cracks or chips a tooth
Holiday meals and treats often mean kids accidentally bite down on something too hard. If your child chips or cracks a tooth:
- Save any pieces, if possible
- Rinse their mouth gently with warm water
- Call us immediately
Cracks can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, so quick treatment helps prevent infection and protects the surrounding teeth.
How to respond when a tooth gets knocked out
Kids are active—even more so during family gatherings. If an accident knocks out a tooth:
- Pick it up by the crown (the top), never the root
- Rinse gently without scrubbing
- Try to place it back in the socket if it’s a permanent tooth
- If that isn’t possible, store it in a small container of milk
Baby teeth should not be put back in the socket, but you should still call us right away so we can check for damage to the surrounding teeth and gums.
Fast action gives us the best chance of saving a permanent tooth and preventing long-term complications.
Simple ways to keep your child’s smile safe this holiday season
You can help your child avoid dental emergencies by:
- Packing their toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss if you’re traveling
- Offering water between treats
- Limiting hard candies and snacks
- Encouraging them to slow down while eating and playing
A little preparation can keep your holiday season joyful and stress-free. If your child experiences any dental emergency, call our office or book an appointment online so they can get the care they need, even during the busiest time of year.
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