Mistletoe-ready smiles

The tree is up, the mulled wine is flowing… and the mistletoe is hanging in wait. Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party or enjoying a cosy night in, there’s one thing that shouldn’t be left off your festive checklist – fresh breath.

Between mince pies, Prosecco and late nights, your smile can take a bit of a hit during Christmas. But don’t worry – here are five simple ways to stay mistletoe-ready throughout December.

1. Keep your aligners sparkling

Wearing Invisalign or Angel Aligners? Give them a little extra attention over the festive season. Rinse them regularly, brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and use your cleaning crystals or tablets as recommended. Always take them out before eating or drinking anything besides water – and pop them straight back in afterwards to stay on track.

2. Brush and floss like a pro

It’s easy to let routines slip when you’re out late or away from home, but consistent brushing and flossing will make all the difference. Brush twice a day, floss once and take a travel kit with you if you’re going away for Christmas. If you wear fixed braces, interdental brushes help remove trapped food and reduce the risk of bad breath.

3. Stay hydrated

From central heating to celebratory drinks, there are plenty of things that dry out your mouth in December. A dry mouth allows odour-causing bacteria to thrive, so make sure you’re sipping water throughout the day – especially between glasses of fizz or mulled wine.

4. Don’t forget your tongue

Your tongue is one of the most common – and most overlooked – sources of bad breath. A quick brush with your toothbrush (or a tongue scraper if you have one) helps clear away lingering bacteria and keeps your breath feeling fresher for longer.

5. Book a check-up with Neva

If it’s been a while since your last visit, a dental check-up is a great way to make sure everything’s in good shape over the festive season. Our dentist, Dr Neva Patel, can spot any signs of plaque build-up, support you with any tricky areas and offer tailored advice to keep your smile looking its best.

However you’re spending Christmas, a bit of extra care will help keep your smile feeling fresh and confident.