New Year’s Eve is the perfect time for toasts to celebrate all your accomplishments for the year and make resolutions for the one ahead. Unfortunately, many party drinks are loaded with sugar and acid—a combination that can be tough on your teeth. But don’t worry, with these strategies, you can still ring in the new year and enjoy your favorite drinks while protecting your dental health.
Start Your Night with a Clean Slate
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing before the party is a smart first step. Plaque holds onto sugars and acids from drinks, so taking care of your pearly whites before you head out the door helps lower your risk of enamel damage and decay.
Watch What You Sip
Not all party drinks affect teeth the same way. Dark sodas, sweet cocktails, and mixed drinks with juice can be very sugary, while champagne, sparkling wine, and other bubbly drinks are more acidic. In general, the less sweet a drink is, the kinder it is for your enamel, so make those your go-to if you plan to cut loose.
Don’t Drink All Night
Casually sipping the same drink for hours constantly bathes your teeth in acidic alcohol. Because of this, it’s actually better to finish a drink in a small window and then give your mouth a break. A good idea is to alternate between alcohol and water. This will wash away any lingering sugar or acid and keep you hydrated as you party the year away.
Don’t Chew Your Ice
Ice may seem harmless, but crunching into a nice chunk, especially after weakening your teeth with alcohol, can chip or crack your pearly whites without warning. Instead, let the ice in your drink melt in your mouth. Not only will this keep your teeth safe, but it’ll also give you a bit of extra hydration throughout the night.
End Your Night with a Quick Cleanup
Before going to bed, another quick brushing and flossing session can make a big difference. This clears away any sugar, acids, and plaque your teeth have accumulated from the night, so it doesn’t linger and feed bad bacteria. It’s a simple step, but an important one that helps ensure your new year starts with a fresh smile and good dental health.
As you can see, by making just a few strategic tweaks to your party plan, you can enjoy every toast and still protect your teeth. And that’s something worth celebrating long after the clock strikes midnight!
About the Practice
At Premier Family Dental, Dr. Rick Cofer and Dr. Ryan McNutt are committed to keeping your smile healthy through every season and celebration. From routine checkups and cleanings to cosmetic and restorative treatments, they provide personalized care for every occasion. Call (254) 732-0309 to schedule an appointment with our expert team or visit our website to see a full menu of services.