Fall is finally here! The air is cooler, the leaves are changing, and many of us are settling back into our school and work routines. With so much shifting this time of year, it is also a great season to refocus on incorporating dental care tips into your routine, which can make a significant difference for your oral health.
At Montgomery Dentistry, we love helping families build simple dental care tips that keep smiles healthy all year long. Here are a few easy ways to give your teeth and gums some extra care this fall.
1. Schedule a Fall Cleaning and Checkup
Between school events, football games, and the upcoming holiday season, fall can get busy fast. That makes it the perfect time to check in with your dentist before the calendar fills up.
A professional cleaning helps clear away plaque and tartar you can’t remove at home. Plus, we can catch little problems before they turn into bigger issues. And don’t forget — many insurance benefits expire at the end of December, so fall is a smart time to use them.
2. Enjoy Fall Treats in Moderation
Caramel apples, pumpkin pie, and sweet holiday drinks are part of what makes fall so fun. The downside? Sugar loves to stick to your teeth and feed cavity-causing bacteria.
You don’t have to give up your favorites, but here are a few dental care tips:
- Save sugary treats for mealtimes instead of snacking all day.
- Drink water afterward to rinse away sugar and acids.
- Add in smile-friendly foods like cheese, nuts, and crunchy apples.
Brushing and flossing after eating sweets is another preventative step to take to protect your smile during the holidays. A little balance goes a long way toward keeping your teeth healthy!
3. Protect Teeth During Fall Sports
Football, soccer, and other contact sports are in full swing this season. Unfortunately, they are also a common cause of chipped or knocked-out teeth. If your child plays sports — or you enjoy them yourself — a custom mouthguard is one of the best ways to prevent injuries. It’s a simple step that can save a lot of stress later.
4. Watch for Seasonal Tooth Sensitivity
Have you noticed your teeth feel more sensitive when the air turns chilly or when you sip a hot drink? That could be a sign of enamel wear, gum recession, or even the beginning of a cavity.
If you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity, let us know. We can help pinpoint the cause and suggest easy solutions, like special toothpaste or fluoride treatments, to make you more comfortable.
5. Refresh Your At-Home Routine
A new season is the perfect time to check in on your daily habits. Ask yourself:
- Is it time to replace your toothbrush? (Every 3–4 months is best.)
- Are you brushing twice a day for two full minutes?
- Are you flossing once a day?
Utilizing these dental care tips will help maintain your dental health and hygiene.
6. Get Ready for the Holidays
Once November and December roll around, schedules get even busier — and sweets show up everywhere. Setting good habits now will help you stay on track when the holidays arrive.
If you’ll be traveling, toss a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss into your bag so you never miss your routine. Your smile will thank you.
Ready to Schedule Your Fall Visit?
Fall is the perfect season to check in on your dental health. A routine cleaning and exam can help prevent problems before they start and keep your smile looking its best heading into the holidays. Call Montgomery Dentistry at (334) 279-0760 to schedule your visit — we’re here to help your whole family enjoy healthy smiles this season and beyond!
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Dr. Amy Morrison Anderson
