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Emergency Dentist in Lancaster, NY: What to Do When Dental Pain Can't Wait

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:18:37 GMT

Emergency Dentist in Lancaster, NY: What to Do When Dental Pain Can't Wait

If you are reading this with a throbbing toothache or a broken tooth, here is what matters most right now: call the office, explain what is happening, and ask for a same-day appointment. In Lancaster, NY, dental emergencies tend to spike in winter when cold air worsens cracked-tooth sensitivity — but no matter the season, waiting even a few hours can turn a manageable problem into a more serious one.

Getting same-day emergency dental care starts with one phone call. Calling ahead lets the team prepare for your specific situation — whether that is a knocked-out tooth or a swollen jaw — so you spend less time in the waiting room and more time getting relief.

What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any problem causing significant pain, uncontrolled bleeding, visible damage, or swelling that cannot safely wait for a routine visit.

Common situations that qualify include a severe toothache (which can signal an abscess or nerve involvement), a knocked-out tooth (a 30–60 minute window exists to reimplant it successfully), a cracked or broken tooth with sharp edges or pain on biting, a lost filling or crown that leaves the tooth exposed, a dental abscess with swelling or fever, and soft-tissue bleeding from trauma to the lips or gums.

If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, err on the side of calling. A brief conversation is enough to determine how quickly you need to be seen.

What Should You Do in the First 30 Minutes?

The steps you take before arriving at the office can protect your tooth and reduce complications.

Knocked-out tooth: Handle it by the crown only, rinse it gently without scrubbing, and store it in milk or hold it in your cheek. Every minute counts — call immediately.
Broken or cracked tooth: Rinse with warm water, save any broken pieces, and apply a cold compress to your cheek to manage swelling.
Severe toothache: Rinse with warm saltwater. Do NOT place aspirin directly on the gum — this burns tissue and does not relieve nerve pain. Call for a same-day slot.
Lost crown or filling: Keep the area clean. Sugar-free gum or over-the-counter dental cement can temporarily cover the tooth until you are seen.
Abscess or swelling: Do NOT attempt to drain it yourself. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek and seek care urgently — an untreated abscess can spread infection beyond the mouth.
Soft-tissue bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze. If bleeding does not slow within 10–15 minutes, you may also need an ER visit followed by dental follow-up.

Same-Day Treatment: What Can Be Done in One Visit

Many dental emergencies — including ones that sound serious — can be fully resolved in a single appointment, not spread across weeks.

A broken tooth or lost crown can often be restored the same day using CEREC technology. The practice designs and mills a permanent ceramic crown on-site, which means no temporary crown, no return visit, and no gap in your smile overnight. Learn more about CEREC same-day crowns to understand how the process works from scan to placement in one appointment.

Root canals are another treatment patients tend to dread — partly because of pain, and partly because of the idea of multiple appointments. One-visit root canal treatment eliminates that concern. The full procedure is completed in a single session, so you leave with the problem resolved rather than scheduled for more visits. Infections treated promptly this way stop spreading before they become medically serious.

Does Insurance Cover an Emergency Dental Visit in Lancaster, NY?

Most dental insurance plans cover emergency exams and at least part of emergency procedures — though coverage varies by plan and situation.

The office accepts most major insurance plans. If your plan leaves a remaining balance, flexible payment options are available so that cost does not become a reason to delay necessary care. Unaddressed dental infections and structural damage become more expensive to treat the longer they are left alone, so acting quickly is almost always the more affordable path.

What to Expect at Your Emergency Appointment

Walking into an emergency dental visit feeling anxious is normal. Knowing what happens when you arrive can lower that barrier.

The team will take X-rays, assess the damaged or painful area, and focus first on relieving pain. From there, you will receive a clear explanation of what is happening and what your treatment options are. Many cases — including broken teeth needing crowns and infected nerves needing root canals — are resolved completely in that same visit rather than requiring you to come back.

The visit is not rushed or impersonal. The same doctors you would see for a routine cleaning handle emergency cases, which means your records and history are already on file.

How Does Lancaster's Climate Affect Dental Emergencies?

Western New York winters are hard on teeth. Rapid temperature swings between heated indoor air and sub-freezing outdoor air cause existing micro-cracks in enamel to expand, which is why cracked-tooth pain often spikes between November and March in Lancaster. Summer contact sports and outdoor activities bring their own wave of knocked-out and broken teeth.

Seasonal patterns mean same-day slots fill up faster during these peaks. Calling as early in the day as possible gives you the best chance of being seen that same morning or afternoon.

Prompt same-day care means pain is addressed before it compounds, structural damage is stabilized before it worsens, and infections are stopped before they spread — all outcomes that protect both your health and your long-term dental costs.

Schedule your urgent visit by contacting Lancaster Dental Associates PC directly, or request an urgent appointment online to describe your situation and get the fastest possible response.

Mind Your Bite: 7 Foods to Avoid for a Healthier Smile

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 15:27:15 GMT

Mind Your Bite: 7 Foods to Avoid for a Healthier Smile

While regular visits to your family dentist are key for overall oral health and a Healthier Smile, what you do between visits writes your family's dental report card. Proper brushing and flossing, however, can only get you so far. By practicing proper nutrition, you can take your dental hygiene a step further. To keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible, and avoid a dental emergency, moderate your consumption of the following foods and drinks.

1. Citrus

While grapefruits, lemons, and oranges are vitamin C superheroes, they can be villains for your teeth if over-consumed. Citrus fruits are highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel. Eat and drink these fruity friends in moderation to keep your teeth's protective layer strong.

2. Coffee

While you do not have to give up your precious morning cup of joe, avoid drinking coffee all day long. Not only is it acidic in nature, but it also can stain your teeth. Choose pearly whites over pearly yellows by sipping with caution. When you do pour yourself a cup, also avoid adding too much sugar.

3. Soda

Soft drinks are a road to tooth decay, containing an excess of sugar and acid. Sipping on soda also dries our your mouth, so if you choose to occasionally enjoy a fizzy beverage, chase it with plenty of water throughout the day.

4. Sticky and Chewy Foods

Snacks such as dried fruit and chewy candy can get stuck between your teeth. If this residue is left behind when brushing, the sugars will sit and potentially cause cavities.

5. Hard Candy

These sugary treats put you and your family at risk for a visit to an emergency dentist . By biting down on a hard piece of candy, you risk breaking a tooth. The slow-dissolving nature of the candy is also a threat to dental health, as it gives bacteria time to hang out on the sugar now spread around your mouth.

6. Alcohol

Overall health risks aside, the main threat that excess alcohol consumption poses to your teeth is dehydration. Over time, this frequent dehydration could reduce saliva flow.

7. Crackers

Crackers and similar snacks are refined carbohydrates, which rapidly convert to sugar. When chewed, they also lodge between your teeth, potentially causing cavities.

During your next checkup, which half of adults schedule every six months, speak with your dentist about how nutrition could impact your dental health. Depending on your specific health needs, consuming specific foods and beverages in moderation could save you time, money, and emergency dentist visits.

Oral Health for Seniors: A Winning Smile at Any Age

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 15:42:03 GMT

Oral Health for Seniors: A Winning Smile at Any Age

It used to simply be a fact of life: as you got older, you were more likely to lose your teeth. However, with modern dentistry techniques and advanced preventative oral health services, that's hardly the case anymore.

Even though today's senior citizens grew up in a time without public fluoridation, without dental implants, and even without many of the cosmetic dentistry options now available, it is possible to take good care of your original teeth well into old age. Follow these tips and advice for a healthy smile to keep you looking young, no matter your age.

Brush and Floss. This tip is no secret, but it's worth mentioning time and again because it's so important. Though most people associate cavities with young children, seniors are also more susceptible to developing cavities because of dry mouth. Brush twice daily and floss every evening.
Get Regular Checkups. The increased chance of cavities means that your biannual family dentist visit is still crucial. Other, more serious conditions, like gum disease or oral cancer, can be spotted in their early stages with the help of a dentist and addressed before they have a chance to develop.
Fill in Gaps. A single missing tooth may not feel like a big deal to you, but it can create bigger problems for your jaw and gum health down the road. Some three million Americans have implants, and another 500,000 are expected to get them every year. Fix a tooth gap with an implant now to avoid having to get a full set of dentures later.
Stay Healthy. A good diet and healthy habits are important for dental health. Drink plenty of fluoridated water, avoid sugary foods, and don't use tobacco. Your teeth and your dentist will thank you!

Healthy, natural teeth are possible at any age. Good habits start at home, but be sure to visit your dentist regularly to make sure that you're doing all you can to protect your mouth for the future that lies ahead.

Oral health is a lifelong endeavor. Take care of your teeth, and in turn, your teeth will take care of you.

What Causes Oral Cavities? The Top 3 Culprits

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 15:28:25 GMT

What Causes Oral Cavities? The Top 3 Culprits

Many of us are, unfortunately, all too familiar with tooth decay. Around 69% of all adults aged 35 to 44 in the U.S. have lost a tooth, whether it's because of tooth decay, gum disease, a failed root canal , or an accident.

There are many words we hate to hear at the dentist's office, but the most common ones are probably "oral cavity." Cavities, or dental caries, are a result of bacteria boring a hole in the tooth's enamel, which has to be plugged up before it spreads.

The good news is that an oral cavity is almost always preventable. You can stop tooth decay in its tracks by staying aware of these top three culprits:

1.Hygiene

The golden rules of oral health are simple: brush and floss! Taking care of your teeth on a twice-daily basis is the best way to prevent cavities. Good habits now can also prevent more serious conditions later, such as gingivitis or root canals.

Also, be sure to visit your family dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Only half of adults get to the dentist every six months as recommended, but regular visits will help identify any issues before they get out of hand.

2. Diet

Your doctor's probably told you that you are what you eat. Your dentist will say the same. Bacteria in the mouth, which can cause tooth decay, love to feed off of sugars. High-sugar foods and drinks are more likely to result in an oral cavity.

Acidic foods and carbonated beverages can also cause the enamel of the tooth to wear down over time. Limit your consumption of things that are both sugary and acidic -- like soda and fruit juice!

3. Genetics

Unfortunately, we can't control all aspects of our teeth. Certain people are simply predisposed to having either extremely strong or very poor teeth because of genetic influences. If your parents have had frequent dental issues -- and 74% of adults have had a tooth extracted in their lives -- it's all the more important to control what you can through good hygiene and dietary habits.

The best method of prevention is knowledge. Understand the common causes of dental caries and do what you can at home to ensure a smooth visit with your dentist every time.

Which Dental Surgery Will Enhance Your Quality of Life the Most?

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:45:12 GMT

Which Dental Surgery Will Enhance Your Quality of Life the Most?

It's fairly obvious that the dentist office has become much less scary in the past several years, mainly due to the rapid advances in dental technology. These days, you don't need to undergo a painful procedure for hours on end just to replace a missing tooth.

There has never been a better time to seek dental surgery, and an experienced dental surgeon can now dramatically enhance your overall quality of life. Whether you're in need of a root canal or just want to replace a missing tooth, there is a dental surgery for everyone. CEREC crowns have completely transformed the dental implant process, and laser technology is one of the fastest-growing oral health services in the world.

If you're still a bit hesitant about dental surgery, you should know that these are not the antiquated treatments of yesteryear. Here are just a few of the many ways to improve your quality of life with dental surgery:

CEREC same day crowns - If there is one field of oral health that has grown the fastest, it is cosmetic dentistry. About 3 million Americans already have dental implants, and that number is growing by 500,000 a year. While more traditional methods used to require at least two appointments for dental implants, CEREC same day crowns have made it possible to replace a missing tooth in just one sitting. Additionally, clinical studies have shown that the success rate of CEREC restorations is 95.5% following a period of nine years, and an impressive 84% after 18 years.
Laser dental restoration - Pain used to be "part of the deal" at the dentist office, but this is no longer the case thanks to lasers. Lasers are particularly beneficial in soft tissue management because they drastically reduce post-operative pain. They're also commonly used for lesion removal and cold sores.
One visit endodontics - More than 41,000 root canals are performed each day, but only the lucky patients experience one visit endodontics. If you're currently in the process of choosing a new family dentistry, you're strongly encouraged to find one that offers one day endodontics. In this procedure, your tooth can actually be saved instead of extracted, and it's virtually pain-free.

You deserve fast and pain-free treatment when oral health issues arise, and that's exactly what you'll get with an experienced dentist office. Ask your dentist about dental surgery to find out what your options are moving forward.

What's the Difference Between a Periodontist and a Dentist?

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:43:57 GMT

Here's Why Millions of Americans are Opting for Dental Implants to Restore Their Smile

Hopefully, you visit your dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and checkup (fess up, only half of adults do!). Most of us are familiar with what dentists are and the types of routine oral health services they provide, from teeth cleaning and cavity fillings to some cosmetic dentistry procedures like veneers or whitening. Dentists also perform around 41,000 root canals every day and have provided some 15 million people in the U.S. with crown and bridge replacements for missing teeth.

So where do periodontists come in? A periodontist is a type of specialized dentist, the same way a pediatrician is a specialized kind of doctor. Periodontistry focuses particularly on the soft tissue of the mouth, especially the gums and bones of the mouth. To become a periodontist, you usually need to go through several years of additional training beyond dental school.

Periodontists frequently deal with severe cases of gum disease. You've probably heard of gingivitis, which is a mild form of gum disease. In most cases, gingivitis can be treated by a family dentist with a thorough cleaning and simple treatments, as well as maintaining proper hygiene habits at home.

Sometimes, however, gum disease advances into a more serious condition known as periodontitis. As you might guess by the similarity in the names, periodontitis usually needs to be treated by a periodontist. When gum disease becomes so severe that it starts to affect not only your gums, but the bone structure of the teeth beneath them, your dentist will likely refer you to a specialized periodontist for further treatment.

Treatments for periodontitis can be non-surgical, such as planing or scaling any infected roots, or it may require oral surgery. Dental implants are a common solution to restore degenerative teeth and improve the health of the gums as well.

You might also see a periodontist for deep pocket cleanings, implant replacements, bone grafting, or hard tissue recontouring. Ultimately, your regular dentist will let you know if it's time to schedule an appointment with a periodontist.

While everyone should visit their dentist regularly, fewer people want to make a habit out of visiting the periodontist. These soft tissue specialists, however, are a vital part of the oral health system and help many people achieve a brighter, healthier smile.

Here's Why Millions of Americans are Opting for Dental Implants to Restore Their Smile

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:43:32 GMT

Here's Why Millions of Americans are Opting for Dental Implants to Restore Their Smile

While millions of Americans file into their dentist's office twice a year for routine cleanings, many of them overlook the importance of other dental restoration procedures. Maintaining your oral health involves much more than mere cleanings, and you need advanced oral health services to truly restore your smile.

Dental implants have seen tremendous advances in the past several years, which means there's never been a better time to replace a broken or missing tooth. The best family dentists offer dental implant services in-house, which will save you from having to find another specialist to perform the procedure.

From their impressive success rate to the expedited process now being used by the best dentists, dental implants have quickly become the go-to option for millions of adults who want to improve their smile, self-confidence, and general quality of life. Here are just three of the many reasons that so many people are opting for dental implants in 2016:

High success rate - While dental implant procedures in the 1980s and 1990s were quite unpredictable, they now have one of the highest success rates among all dentistry techniques. In fact, the success rate of dental implants has been reported in scientific literature as 98%. This percentage continues to increase as technology advances, and you will be amazed at how natural and realistic implants have become.
CEREC technology - Speaking of advanced technology, there is one specific implant technique that has completely revolutionized the procedure. The CEREC 3D system is a highly-specialized computer that is now being used as an effective dental restoration tool, particularly in the realm of implants. Combined with 3D X-ray technology, it has been possible to use CEREC for implants since 2009. The long-term success rate of CEREC dental implants is utterly astounding. Recent clinical studies reveal that the success rate of CEREC restorations is 95.5% following a period of nine years, and 84% after 18 years.
One day implants and crowns - If you've been putting off dental implants because you think your procedure will require multiple appointments, then think again. As the technology surrounding the implant industry has advanced, the time it takes to complete the procedure has been dramatically reduced. The placement of CEREC implant crowns requires just one visit, unlike traditional methods that require two or more appointments.

Millions of patients are beginning to regain their beautiful smiles with the help of dental implants, and you can join them. Talk to an experienced family dental office that can provide one day implants to find out how you can restore your smile in just one visit.

Dentistry Techniques for a Better Smile

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:40:54 GMT

Dentistry Techniques for a Better Smile

While dentistry and oral care have been around for thousands of years, they've never stopped evolving. Even today, dental researchers and experts are working constantly to develop better techniques, technologies, and solutions to help people get the most out of their mouths.

Those efforts can directly benefit you as a patient. With modern dentistry techniques, there have never been more ways to help you feel confident and secure in your smile.

Whitening

One of the top reasons people are unhappy with their teeth is because of discoloration. Nearly half, or 48%, of the population, say they're unhappy with their smile, and 64% say it's because of the color. Yellowing of the teeth occurs naturally with age, but habits like smoking, drinking coffee, wine, or soda, and poor hygiene can cause discoloration more rapidly and noticeably. New cosmetic dentistry techniques, like laser whitening, are available to give you a gleaming white grin with just a few treatments that last only 30 to 90 minutes.

Root Canals

The words "root canal" tend to strike fear into the hearts of many dental patients, but modern dentistry techniques have rendered the procedure virtually painless. There are more than 15 million root canals performed every year, and though your tooth may feel sensitive or different after treatment, it's a far better alternative to losing that tooth forever.

Implants

One of the most rapidly evolving fields of dentistry is in dental restoration and implant technology. CEREC crowns, for example, are made using 3D technology to form an exact replica for your missing tooth. Best of all, the entire process can be completed in just one visit -- instead of two or three, like traditional crowns.

There's never been a better time to make full use of your family dentist. With modern tools, the latest technologies, and state-of-the-art equipment, every dentist's office is beginning to feel like a one-stop-shop for all of your dental needs, whether it's for a routine check-up, an emergency, or a cosmetic procedure.

You can be happy and confident about your teeth with the help of the latest dentistry techniques. So go ahead, smile about it!

The Secret to a Beautiful Smile? Ask the Cosmetic Dentists

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:39:47 GMT

The Secret to a Beautiful Smile? Ask the Cosmetic Dentists

A beautiful smile is a winning ticket in practically any field, but especially so among Hollywood movie stars. You may think that all celebrities are just born with a naturally perfect set of pearly whites. But in fact, the secret to a beautiful smile is oftentimes the work of cosmetic dentists. The truth is that anyone can have a whiter, brighter smile with the help of cosmetic dentistry. So enough with the secrets -- here's how you can look and feel more confident in your grin.

Teeth Whitening: This is one of the most common requests from patients who visit cosmetic dentists. Everyday habits like drinking coffee, tea, or red wine can cause teeth to yellow or discolor over time, but with today's dentistry techniques, you can restore the original white color of your teeth in just one visit. You'll notice the difference right away, and so will everyone you meet.

Porcelain Veneers: Do you have uneven gaps between your teeth or an uneven length along your front incisors? These harmless but unsightly imperfections can be corrected with a set of porcelain veneers, which are like small caps that fit over your natural teeth. Best of all, they're resistant to staining, which means that they'll stay white no matter how much coffee you drink.

Dental Implants: Even athletes in accident-prone sports like boxing and football seem to always have perfect teeth. Yet 74% of all adults have required a tooth extraction at some point in their lives. Modern implants look and feel just like real teeth, so even if you've had one knocked out by accident or lost one to decay, you can still have a full set of functional teeth without having to resort to uncomfortable dentures.

Ready to give your smile a makeover? Ask our cosmetic dentists how a simple procedure might change the look and feel of your mouth. While oral hygiene and health are vital for everyone, we all know how important it is to be confident in your smile. As the old saying goes, when you smile at the world, the world will smile back. Call Lancaster Dental Associates, PC today for a consultation or appointment.

What Should You Do In the Event Of a Dental Emergency?

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:38:14 GMT

What Should You Do In the Event Of a Dental Emergency?

Do you know what to do in the event of a dental emergency? In many situations, time is of the essence to properly fix and address injuries that affect your teeth, gums, or mouth. In fact, delaying your trip to the dentist could seriously increase your risk of permanent damages, infections, or complications.

Here's a quick guide on how to handle some of the most common dental mishaps and emergencies.

Toothaches

For lingering pain, first make sure that your mouth is clean. Floss away any stuck foods and rinse regularly with warm water. You might also apply ice to the outside of your cheek to help reduce swelling and to numb some of the pain until you can get in to see an experienced emergency dentist.

Chipped or cracked tooth

Rinse your mouth with warm water and try to save any broken-off pieces if you can. Use gauze to plug any bleeding and apply ice to the outside of the mouth near the affected area. Get to a dentist as soon as possible.

Dislodged tooth

Around 69% of adults aged 35 to 44 have lost at least one tooth, whether because of an accident, tooth decay, gum disease, or a failed root canal. If you have a tooth that gets knocked out completely, try to save it in a container of milk (or water with a little bit of salt). You stand a good chance of being able to save and reinsert the tooth if you can to get to an experienced emergency dentist within an hour of the incident.

Soft tissue injuries

To stem bleeding in the gums, cheeks, tongue, or lips, first rinse out your mouth with a mild saltwater solution, then apply gauze to the affected area and hold for 15 to 20 minutes. You can also apply ice to the outside during this time. If the bleeding doesn't stop by then, see your dentist as soon as possible.

A dental emergency can be a painful ordeal. The more you know about what to do in the event of a crisis, the more you can do to make sure that the situation gets handled properly. Always keep the phone number of an experienced emergency dentist on hand for those just-in-case moments.

Contact an experienced emergency dentist in the case of a dental emergency

The Most Common Oral Health Services, Ranked

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:36:43 GMT

The Most Common Oral Health Services, Ranked

Only about 50% of adults say that they visit their dentist every six months as recommended, which can lead to a range of dental problems down the road. Even so, regular cleanings are likely still among the most common oral health services administered by dentists throughout the world, as well as one of the best and most important ways to prevent more serious oral health problems from developing. Here's a list of the most common issues dentists have to treat in their patients, beyond regular cleanings:

Cavities - The World Health Organization estimates that close to 100% of the global adult population has one or more cavities -- but not everyone has access to oral health services to get them filled. Untreated cavities can cause discomfort, pain, and even more dental problems without proper care.
Gum Disease - Mild forms of gum disease can often be reversed with proper hygiene and care, but more severe forms can lead to periodontitis, which affects 20% of adults aged 35 to 44. Left untreated, gingivitis can cause pain and swelling in the gums as well as permanent tooth damage.
Tooth Loss - Both cavities and gum disease can lead to severe tooth decay and tooth loss without proper oral health services. It's not uncommon for older people to lose all of their natural teeth, even in societies with advanced dental care practices such as the United States. However, dental implants are fast becoming an effective alternative to dentures for people missing either a single tooth or a whole set of teeth.
Oral Cancer - Tobacco use and alcohol are thought to be the driving factors in oral cancer. Approximately 48,250 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer every year, and another 9,575 will die from the disease. While the early symptoms of oral cancer often go unnoticed by the individuals who have them, a close inspection from your family dentist can help detect the signs before they become untreatable.

Going to the dentist shouldn't always result in bad news, however. With regular cleanings, check-ups, and oral health services , you can help keep your teeth healthy and bright for years to come. Protect your mouth, and you'll give both you and your dentist something to smile about.

Healthy Mouth Tips for This Holiday Season

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:34:40 GMT

Healthy Mouth Tips for This Holiday Season

The holiday season is when many of us let our diets relax and our tables and calendars overflow with dinner parties, dessert buffets, social drinks, and plenty of sweets. While there's nothing wrong with adding a little bit of merriment to your holiday get-togethers, be sure to keep your oral health in mind as you wine and dine your way through the season. Here are five easy tips for maintaining a healthy mouth while still enjoying yourself.

1.Swish and rinse.

Long festive parties with lots of food and drinks mean long times of separation between you and your toothbrush. At the very least, swish your mouth with water after eating to prevent food from getting stuck in your teeth, which can lead to tooth decay.

2. Watch the wine.

Coffee isn't the only beverage that stains your teeth: red wine also has high tannin levels that can lead to yellowing. Discolored teeth are the main reason (64%) people say they're unhappy with their teeth (which 48% of the entire population are). Opt for clear-colored drinks instead, or better yet, just stick to water.

3. Relax!

The holidays are also a time of stress for many people, which can lead to nail biting, teeth grinding, or other habits that are bad for your oral health. Make sure you allocate enough time for rest and relaxation between your social events.

4. Visit your family dentist.

Now is a great time to get your teeth cleaned and checked for your biannual appointment. You'll feel confident in your smile knowing that your teeth are in top health.

5. Carry sugarless gum.

When you're out and about, you can actually help prevent gum disease and gingivitis by chewing ADA-approved sugarless gum after meals. The chewing helps generate saliva that will clean your teeth, so try some for about 20 minutes after meals.

You can still let loose for the holidays without letting your oral health ride off the rails. Stay smart about what you eat and how you clean your teeth, and your smile will see you through the holidays and have you ringing in the New Year in the most glamorous way.