5 Healthy Ways to Get Your Holiday Peppermint Fix

by | Dec 1, 2021 | Dental Health

Candy canes, peppermint hot cocoa, and peppermint frosted Christmas cookies; ‘tis the season for festive holiday treats! Did you know that peppermint oil has dental benefits? Peppermint is well-known as one of the most popular and useful medicinal plants throughout the world. Unfortunately, many traditional holiday treats also contain high amounts of sugar, which can negatively impact your teeth. Here are 5 healthy ways to get your holiday peppermint fix without compromising your dental health.

1. Peppermint Tea

Brewing peppermint tea leaves or adding a drop or two of peppermint essential oil to your favorite holiday tea can brighten the frostiest winter day, while also benefiting your gums and dental health. Studies show that peppermint oil helps to fight the bacteria in your mouth that causes gum disease and cavities. So if you’re searching for healthy ways to get your holiday peppermint fix, get cozy with a soft blanket, a good book or show, and a festive cup of hot tea!

2. Sugar-free Peppermint Candy

Another easy way to get your holiday peppermint fix is to simply look for sugar-free options of your favorite holiday candies so you can experience all of the tradition without that sugary residue on your teeth. Candy canes or peppermint sticks are often easy to find in sugar-free varieties.

3. Peppermint Lip Balm

Peppermint is a popular flavor for lip balm because of how refreshing it feels and smells. Look for lip balms containing natural peppermint oil for an authentic holiday peppermint flavor and fragrance to keep your lips healthy and moisturized all season long.

4. Peppermint Dental Care

Mint is one of the most common ingredients in many dental products thanks to its ability to freshen breath and leave your mouth feeling cool and clean. If you’ve switched to other flavors, the holidays can be a great time to replenish your supply of mint flavored toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash to give yourself a minty spa-like experience every time you take care of your teeth.

5. Peppermint Diffusers or Candles

Peppermint oil offers benefits when used in many forms. Whether it is used as an herb or an essential oil, peppermint can do a lot to improve your sense of wellbeing, which in turn can lead to an overall improvement of your health including your dental health. Peppermint oil diffusers and candles can be one of many healthy ways to get your holiday peppermint fix to boost your mood, energy levels, and self-care routine.

Talking with Your Dentist About Using Peppermint

After learning about all the benefits of peppermint, it might feel tempting to use natural peppermint oil directly, such as by adding it to your dental care products or applying it to your gums. Peppermint essential oil is very powerful, though, and using too much in its natural highly concentrated form can kill healthy bacteria in your mouth or lead to burns, so it’s important to talk with your dentist before incorporating peppermint oil directly into your dental hygiene routine. Your dentist will be happy to lend their extensive experience and knowledge to help you enjoy all the benefits of peppermint in ways that are both safe and effective as you celebrate the holiday season.

Call our Casa Grande Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.

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