CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – As the seasons change, and the air gets colder, it’s the perfect seasonal time to focus on your oral health. Now that it’s cooler outside, we may increase our consumption of warm drinks, such as coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, which can stain our teeth. Halloween can also create temptation to increase our sugar consumption. Dr. V Escobar understands how to counter these seasonal changes, and encourages you to assess your oral care routine with a professional.

Here are some tips on improving oral health:

Make sure you are using the right toothbrush and using it correctly: Ensure you are reaching every corner of your mouth, and the thickness of the brush is the right tool for you.

Try to limit the number of sugary treats Halloween and Thanksgiving are the perfect holidays to over-indulge in sugar consumption. Make sure you brush your teeth each time after eating sugar. After bruching, makes sure you floss to remove any lingering plaque or pieces between your teeth.

Make sure to hydrate: Most of us are guilty of never drinking enough water. If our mouths are dry, it can contribute to bad breath and an increase in cavities, as saliva neutralizes acids and washes away food. Fruits and vegetables are a healthy way to add more hydrating foods to your diet.

When you travel, keep a toothbrush nearby: Whether it’s a weekend getaway, an all-day meeting, or traveling to see family for Thanksgiving, always have a toothbrush within reach after a meal.

Don’t forget to floss: After brushing thoroughly and carefully, make sure you floss to remove any food debris that was left behind in between your teeth.

Kids and pets also need healthy oral habits: Remind your kids how important their brushing routine is every day.

Ask about a whitening routine: If a dazzling smile is important to you for the holidays, now is the time to ask about it.

As the weather changes, it is a good time to change your dental hygiene habits. If you feel you aren’t taking care of your teeth as you would like, or you are looking for guidance on how to care for them better, ask Dr. V Escobar 217-366-1246 or visit his website to schedule an appointment.