If you take full advantage of the holiday season or tend to go all out for parties and gatherings, there are some precautions you should remember when it comes to protecting your teeth. You might forget warnings from your dentist when there are plenty of treats around or stress levels are up. Here are four things to avoid when it comes to your teeth, especially during the holiday season.

1. Loading Up on Candies

Whether it's the holidays or a child's birthday party, if there is a lot of candy around, this can be hard to resist. If you have fillings or crowns, it is best to avoid candies that are exceptionally chewy or hard. Chewy nougats can pull out fillings, and hard candies can crack teeth. This doesn't mean you can't indulge, just do this smartly and be sure to pick treats that will do the least damage.

2. Going Overboard with Red Wine and Coffee

Parties tend to have beverages that can lead to the most staining when it comes to your teeth. If you can avoid darker beverages and opt for white wine and water you will be better off. Over time, staining will take professional intervention to help your teeth get back to a whitened state. If you are already getting your teeth professionally whitened, don't undo your hard work by drinking too many staining beverages at parties.

3. Avoid Hard Food Items that Can be Damaging

There are certain party foods and items that can be exceptionally damaging to your teeth. It might be a habit to chew on the ice from your beverage, but this can wear down your teeth. Party favors such as seasonal nuts can be tempting, but be sure these are already cracked, or find a nutcracker to help. Cracking nuts with your teeth can do more damage than you realize.

4. Using Your Teeth as Tools While Wrapping Gifts

It can be tempting to use your teeth to cut ribbon or tape while wrapping gifts, especially if you are in a rush. This can wear down the enamel on your teeth and take away this protective layer. If you hate having to put everything down to grab the scissors, there are products on the market that can make this easier, such as pre-cut tapes and ribbons so you can wrap your presents quickly and efficiently.

If you like to celebrate the holidays, there are ways to do this without putting your teeth in danger. If you do accidentally end up with a sore tooth or a filling falls out, be sure to call your dentist right away. The best method to keep your teeth strong and healthy is to avoid activities that can cause damage in the first place.

Contact a dental clinic like Arrowhead Family Dentistry for more help.