With the season of advent calendars upon us, one expert has shared a lesser-known benefit
As we delve into the advent calendar season, one dental expert is spreading some festive cheer with a health-positive message. With many already tucking into their calendars—some perhaps beyond day 4—one dental expert is keen to dispel the gloom and assure people indulging in this festive cheer isn’t entirely against your best wishes.
Ordo’s dental expert Barty Walsh has shared that the bite-sized chocolates behind those little doors might just be a festive boost for our wellbeing—and surprisingly, for our teeth too. Kids may need to hold off though, despite typically being the target market for these festive countdowns.
Walsh explained the virtues of advent calendars, stating they offer the “best way” to enjoy chocolate due to their minimal portion sizes, differing from the larger quantities found in full chocolate bars or packs. Plus, the caffeine kick provides an energising lift along with a wealth of antioxidants packed in cocoa beans.
He champions the concept of an advent breakfast, saying: “You can wake up and eat your chocolate first, then brush your teeth for the day ahead.” However, he does stipulate that you should wait about half an hour post-chocolate before brushing, to protect tooth enamel.
Barty shared savvy advice for a guilt-free advent calendar indulgence with extra benefits for your teeth: “Brush your teeth and floss regularly. Choose dark chocolate and look for ingredients that are good for your teeth such as nuts or mint. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to rinse the mouth out.”
Dark chocolate isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s a dental defender, explained by the expert for its ability to battle tooth-harming bacteria. “It helps to fight the bacteria that cause the sugars to turn into acid, and contains strong antibacterial agents. The darker the better when it comes to choosing a dark chocolate, and it even helps prevent bad breath so it’s an all-round favourite treat for dentists.”
But there’s a cautionary footnote: while grown-up teeth can generally handle the sugary splurges better, Barty warned that children’s teeth are more at risk. He appealed to parents to monitor their little ones’ sugar consumption, especially during the advent calendar season, and ensure they brush religiously.
