Maintain oral health during CNY celebrations, says dental surgeon
KUALA LUMPUR: As the Chinese New Year festive season approaches, indulging in treats with loved ones is a delightful tradition.
However, Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City dental surgeon Dr Emilia Chua Siew Li underscores the importance of moderation for healthy teeth and gums, ensuring a radiant smile throughout the celebrations.
She said that while enjoying treats is acceptable, moderation is key to safeguarding dental health, and stressed that excessive consumption of sugary foods and drinks can lead to tooth decay and other dental issues.
“It is okay to enjoy treats but moderation is key. Avoid consuming excessive sugary food and drinks as this can contribute to tooth decay and other dental issues,” she said in a statement.
Opting for less harmful sweets, such as dark chocolate over sticky or hard candies, can significantly benefit dental health, as they contain less sugar and are less likely to adhere to teeth.
“It is also better to consume
It is okay to enjoy treats but moderation is key. Avoid consuming excessive sugary food and drinks as this can contribute to tooth decay and other dental issues.
Dr Emilia Chua Siew Li
sweets with meals rather than as snacks. This is because the increased saliva production during meals can help neutralise acids and rinse away food particles,” she said.
Additionally, she said choosing oral-friendly foods like fresh fruits, vegetables with hummus, cheese, nuts, lean proteins, whole grains, and beverages like green and black tea provides additional oral health benefits.
During the festive season, Dr Chua advises moderation when consuming acidic fruits like oranges, as they can erode enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay.
“Use a straw for sugary or acidic drinks such as soft drinks and keep them at mealtimes, stay hydrated with water, and chew sugar-free xylitol gum to stimulate saliva and prevent tooth decay,” she said.
Prior to the festivities, Dr Chua suggests scheduling a dental check-up and cleaning to address any potential issues and ensure optimal dental health.
Encouraging children to consume sugary foods in moderation, opting for teeth-friendly snacks, and maintaining a regular oral care routine is essential for their dental health, she said.
Further tips for better oral health include limiting sugary and acidic drinks, rinsing the mouth after consuming sweets, eating a nutrient-rich diet, replacing toothbrushes regularly, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.
Dr Chua also emphasises maintaining oral hygiene while travelling, particularly in cold weather or when exposed to sugary and acidic local foods, to minimise the risk of tooth sensitivity and other dental issues.