Doctor Tran Lan Anh, professional director of Platinum Dental, stated that Tet is the time when oral health is most vulnerable throughout the year. The primary reason stems from disrupted eating habits and frequent parties. Continuous consumption of sticky sweets, carbonated drinks, and alcohol creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Foods high in sugar and acid rapidly weaken tooth enamel, leading to acute tooth decay, sensitivity, or widespread gum inflammation.

A doctor treats a patient's teeth. *Photo: Thu Ngoc*.

Alcohol, an indispensable beverage at parties, also causes dry mouth, reducing the natural saliva that protects tooth enamel. This condition allows damage to form and spread faster than usual. Additionally, habits such as biting hard seeds (melon seeds, sunflower seeds), staying up late, and neglecting brushing significantly increase the risk of chipped teeth, loose fillings, mouth ulcers, or bad breath during the holiday period.

Dental clinics consistently observe a sharp increase in patient numbers after each Tet holiday. Doctor Lan Anh noted that most patients complain of throbbing tooth pain, bleeding during brushing, swollen gums, or canker sores. If individuals experience intermittent pain, sensitivity to cold foods, red and swollen gums, or persistent bad breath, they should visit a dental facility for examination immediately after the holiday ends to prevent severe complications.

The expert also cautioned against the trend of "super-fast" cosmetic dentistry at year-end. Many people, driven by the desire for quick aesthetic improvements for Tet, opt for "express" crowning or veneer services at disreputable establishments. This often results in severe complications like pulp inflammation, gum recession, malocclusion, and even the forced extraction of natural teeth. The doctor emphasized that cosmetic procedures always require thorough examination, X-rays, and meticulous planning; they cannot be rushed in just a few days without significant risks. The public should be wary of exaggerated advertisements such as "pain-free veneers, done in a day, lifetime warranty".

To maintain a healthy smile throughout the holiday, proper oral hygiene is crucial. The doctor recommends brushing teeth at least two times daily and using dental floss instead of traditional bamboo toothpicks. It is advisable to consume sweets immediately after main meals rather than snacking throughout the day, and to drink plain water immediately after having candies or carbonated drinks to neutralize acids.

When consuming alcohol, alternating with plain water helps limit dry mouth. People should never use their teeth to bite hard objects, open bottle caps, or chew ice, as this can lead to broken or chipped teeth. Individuals prone to canker sores should keep topical gel or specialized mouthwash in their family medicine cabinet.

Le Nga