The holidays are a time for joy, family gatherings, and festive treats. They are also one of the most common times of year for dental problems to appear. Between busy schedules, holiday travel, and indulgent foods, many people unintentionally put their oral health at risk.

Whether you are searching for a North Las Vegas dentist, a Las Vegas dentist, or an emergency dentist in Las Vegas, understanding the most common holiday dental mistakes can help you avoid pain, stress, and unexpected dental visits.

1. Biting Into Hard Holiday Foods and Candy

Candy canes, nuts, brittle, and hard candies are everywhere during the holidays. These treats are one of the leading causes of chipped and cracked teeth this time of year.

Hard foods can easily damage enamel or break dental work such as crowns and fillings. Even a small crack can lead to pain, sensitivity, or infection if left untreated.

How to avoid it:

• Avoid biting directly into hard candy or nuts
• Be cautious with foods that require excessive force to chew
• Choose softer holiday treats when possible

If you do chip or crack a tooth, it is important to contact an Emergency Dentist in Las Vegas as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

2. Snacking on Sugary Treats Throughout the Day

One of the biggest holiday dental mistakes is constant snacking. Cookies, candy, chocolates, and sweet drinks are often consumed throughout the day instead of at meals.

Each time you eat sugar, bacteria in your mouth produce acids that attack your tooth enamel. Frequent snacking gives your teeth little time to recover, increasing the risk of cavities.

How to avoid it:

• Enjoy sweets with meals rather than grazing all day
• Drink water after sugary foods to help rinse away residue
• Limit sticky candies that cling to teeth longer

3. Letting Brushing and Flossing Slip During Busy Schedules

Holiday travel, late nights, and packed schedules often lead to skipped brushing and flossing. Even short lapses in routine can allow plaque to build up quickly.

Plaque that is not removed daily can lead to cavities, gum inflammation, and bad breath. Over time, it can harden into tartar, which requires professional cleaning.

How to avoid it:

• Brush twice a day for two minutes
• Floss at least once daily, even when traveling
• Pack a travel toothbrush and floss for trips or long days away from home

4. Ignoring Tooth Pain or Sensitivity Until After the Holidays

Many people notice early signs of dental problems such as tooth sensitivity, mild pain, or gum irritation and decide to wait until the holidays are over to address them.

Small dental issues often worsen quickly. What begins as minor discomfort can turn into an infection or severe toothache that requires emergency care.

How to avoid it:

• Do not ignore persistent pain or sensitivity
• Schedule an appointment if symptoms last more than a few days
• Seek care early to avoid a dental emergency

If pain becomes severe or swelling develops, contacting an Emergency Dentist Las Vegas provider right away is critical.

5. Drinking Sugary or Acidic Holiday Beverages

Holiday drinks such as soda, hot chocolate, cocktails, wine, and seasonal beverages are often high in sugar and acid. Sipping on these drinks for extended periods can weaken enamel and increase cavity risk.

Acidic drinks soften enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to damage, especially when combined with sugar.

How to avoid it:

• Alternate sugary drinks with water
• Use a straw when possible to limit contact with teeth
• Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing after acidic drinks

Why Dental Care Matters During the Holidays

Dental emergencies tend to increase during the holiday season due to cracked teeth, untreated cavities, and infections. Addressing dental concerns early can help you avoid pain and disruption to your holiday plans.

Seeing a trusted North Las Vegas dentist before issues worsen can also help you start the new year with a healthier smile and fewer unexpected problems.

Common Holiday Dental Questions Answered

What is considered a dental emergency during the holidays?
Severe tooth pain, swelling, broken or knocked out teeth, and lost crowns or fillings all require prompt attention from an emergency dentist.

Can I see a dentist in North Las Vegas during the holidays?
Yes. Many dental offices offer limited holiday hours or same day emergency appointments. Calling ahead is recommended.

Should I see my regular dentist or an emergency dentist?
For sudden pain or injury, an Emergency Dentist in Las Vegas is the right choice. For preventive care or ongoing concerns, your regular Las Vegas dentist is ideal.

Protect Your Smile This Holiday Season

Taking a few extra steps to care for your teeth during the holidays can prevent unnecessary discomfort and dental emergencies. If you are experiencing pain, sensitivity, or are due for a checkup, scheduling an appointment sooner rather than later can make all the difference.

Learn more about our team:
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Ready to book your visit with a trusted North Las Vegas dentist? Schedule your appointment here:
https://www.nlvdental.com/contact

From all of us at NLV Dental, we wish you a happy, healthy, and pain free holiday season.