SMILE THROUGH THE SWEET SEASON HOW TO AVOID HOLIDAY DENTAL MISHAPS
Halloween is the beginning of the sweet season. With bags of candy, Thanksgiving feasts, and holiday desserts, your teeth are up against extra sugary risks. While you don’t have to give up your favorite seasonal treats, there are some simple ways to protect your oral health. If a dental emergency arises this holiday season, knowing the next steps can help ensure you get the care you need. HEALTHY HOLIDAY HABITS One of the best ways to protect your teeth this Halloween and beyond is to stay on top of your regular oral health care and preventive maintenance. Make sure you are still brushing, flossing, and receiving professional cleanings at the dentist. When it comes to your treats, snack in moderation and be mindful of what you are consuming. Don’t eat a whole bag of candy in one night, and keep your goodies in the kitchen so you’ll be less tempted to snack. Drink plenty of water to help wash away sugars and bacteria in your mouth. STICKY SITUATIONS Some of the most common dental problems that arise during the holidays are cracked or chipped teeth, lost fillings, and toothaches. There are some dental emergencies you can wait a few days to seek care for, and others that need more immediate attention. If you are experiencing serious pain, swelling, or bleeding that doesn’t stop, those are signs that you should act sooner rather than later to prevent further issues. SWEET STEPS There are immediate steps you can take at home if you have a holiday- induced dental issue. Make sure the affected area is clean by rinsing it with If you would like your favorite joke featured, email Office@exceptionalsmiles.com. You may see it in our next issue! Q: Why don’t mummies go on vacation? A: They’re afraid to unwind. LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKES OF THE MONTH Q: Why shouldn’t you gossip in a cornfield? A: Too many ears. Q: Why did the skeleton stay home from the Halloween dance? A: She had no body to go with!
mouthwash or warm water and flossing to remove any lodged food. If you are experiencing pain or a toothache, take an over-the-counter pain reliever. For loose fillings, caps, or crowns, avoid eating on that side of your mouth, and you can temporarily use toothpaste, sugarless gum, or at-home dental cement to help keep it in place. Just don’t do this before you go to bed, as you could swallow a cap in your sleep.
If holiday treats lead to a dental emergency, give us a call so we can help you get the care you need and enjoy the rest of the festivities.
Philly Cheesesteak Cabbage Wraps
Ingredients • 8 large green cabbage leaves • 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided • 2 large bell peppers, thinly sliced • 1/2 large yellow onion, thinly sliced • 1 tsp dried oregano
• Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 1 lb skirt steak, thinly sliced • 6 slices provolone
Directions 1. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch cabbage leaves for 30 seconds, then let dry on paper towel-lined plate. 2. In large skillet over medium, heat 1 tbsp oil. Add bell peppers, onion, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook until tender; transfer to a plate. 4. In the same skillet, heat remaining oil.
5. Arrange steak in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. 6. Cook until seared on one side, about 2 minutes. Flip and repeat. 7. Return onion and peppers to skillet and top with an even layer of provolone, then cover and cook until cheese melts. 8. Scoop steak mixture onto cabbage leaves, roll like a burrito, and serve.
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