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2016 is set to wrap up in just a few days and the last big parties of the year are being planned. Many of us will go out and celebrate the end of this tumultuous year at the homes of friends, at local pubs and eateries or just at home watching the ball drop.

There will be champagne and cocktails. It’s often what we do when ushering in a new year.

Here are a couple of tips to show your teeth and gums some love if you plan to imbibe:

• Hydrate: Water is your friend when it comes to your teeth and the consumption of alcohol. It’s good in general to hydrate but it’s also good for your teeth. Your saliva will do most of the work in reducing plaque and bacteria but drinking water will help alleviate the dryness of mouth caused by alcohol consumption.
• Don’t chew on your ice. You will be surprised how easily you can break or chip a tooth that way.
• Avoid adding citrus to your drinks. Lemon especially can etch away at your tooth enamel.
• It’s been noted in some studies, that red wine may help kill oral bacteria called streptococci, which is associated with tooth decay but it, like dark liquors and sodas, can add to staining.

Celebrate responsibly and safely!

Dr. Sherman and the Staff of Breezy Bay Dental of Palm Harbor, Florida, wish you and yours a happy healthy New Year! If your New Years resolution is healthy teeth and gums or a shiny new smile, come in and see us. Let’s make 2017 a year to smile about and have the best smiles possible.