The holiday season is filled with joy, laughter, and plenty of festive treats. From hot cocoa by the fire to sparkling cider at family gatherings, it’s the time of year when everyone indulges a little more than usual. But while many holiday beverages are delicious, they can also take a toll on your oral health if you’re not careful. Some are loaded with sugar, while others are highly acidic—both of which can lead to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even cavities.
Here are 3 popular holiday drinks that can be hard on your teeth and how you can still enjoy them safely this season.
1. Hot Chocolate
Few things feel as cozy as sipping a warm cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day. But this holiday favorite often contains large amounts of sugar, especially when topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, or flavored syrups. That sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, leading to acid production that can weaken tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities.
To make matters worse, hot chocolate tends to coat your teeth with a sticky residue, giving bacteria more time to do their damage.
Protect your smile:
- Try using low-sugar or dark chocolate mixes, which contain less sugar and more antioxidants.
- Rinse your mouth with water after drinking to wash away lingering sugars.
- Avoid sipping over long periods; the longer your teeth are exposed to sugar, the more harm it can cause.
Hot chocolate doesn’t have to be off-limits—it just needs a few tweaks to be more tooth-friendly.
2. Eggnog
Eggnog is another classic holiday indulgence, but it’s one of the worst offenders for your teeth. Traditional recipes are high in sugar, dairy, and sometimes alcohol—all of which can affect your oral health.
The sugar promotes cavities, while the alcohol (in spiked versions) can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva flow. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away bacteria, so when your mouth is dry, your teeth are more vulnerable to decay.
Protect your smile:
- Choose alcohol-free or low-sugar eggnog options when possible.
- Drink water between sips to keep your mouth hydrated and rinse away sugars.
- Brush about 30 minutes after drinking—this allows your enamel time to re-harden before brushing.
If you love eggnog, moderation and hydration are key to enjoying it without harming your teeth.
3. Sparkling Cider and Holiday Punch
While sparkling cider and fruity holiday punches look festive, they can be surprisingly acidic and sugary. The carbonation in sparkling cider increases its acidity, which can weaken enamel, while the fruit juices and added sweeteners feed harmful mouth bacteria.
These drinks can cause erosion over time, especially if you sip them slowly throughout the day.
Protect your smile:
- Use a straw to minimize contact between the drink and your teeth.
- Rinse with water immediately after drinking to neutralize acids.
- Limit how often you drink these beverages and balance them with tooth-friendly foods like cheese or nuts.
The holidays are a time to celebrate, not stress about every sip—but being mindful of what’s in your cup can go a long way toward protecting your teeth. Hot chocolate, eggnog, and sparkling cider may taste festive, but they can all be harsh on your enamel if enjoyed too often. By making small adjustments—like choosing low-sugar options, drinking plenty of water, and practicing good oral hygiene—you can enjoy your favorite holiday drinks without sacrificing your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Luke Lumpkin earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry in 2006. He’s been practicing dentistry for more than a decade and stays current in his field through memberships with the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Sleep Dentistry. Looking for preventive care for your teeth? We can help! Schedule an appointment online or call (918) 336-6777.