The Best Dishes For Your Teeth This Thanksgiving

The holiday season is almost here. With the passing of Halloween comes Thanksgiving. Whether you’re spending the holiday around the table with loved ones, or you’re having a small get together; a variety of food is sure to be present. From the main course of turkey, to the many, many, side dishes most do not consider how their Thanksgiving Day meal affects their teeth and gums.

Before you dig in to your Thanksgiving meal, let’s take a look to see just how healthy (or not) Thanksgiving is for your oral hygiene.

Turkey: This main course is really good for you. It’s a lean protein that supplies over 20g per serving. Turkey meat also packs potassium, selenium, and a spectrum of B vitamins; most notably riboflavin (vitamin B2) and niacin (vitamin B3). Both vitamins help to keep sores and oral inflammation at bay, which can help in preventing and treating canker sores and inflamed gums. 

Cranberry Sauce: Although cranberries themselves are a heathy source of vitamins C and E, canned cranberry sauce is loaded with sugars (high glucose corn syrup) that can cause cavities. Not to mention that canned cranberry sauce is highly concentrated with acids which give off a tart flavor. Over time those acids can wear down your teeth’s enamel, and may cause staining. 

Pumpkin Pie: Very few desserts during the holiday season come close to the delicious taste of Pumpkin Pie. Not only rich in flavor, but also in vitamins C and A. These are essential for healthy gums and building tooth enamel, so save a slice for after the feast. Keep in mind, however, that too much of the added sugar during the course of the meal could result in those sugars sitting on your teeth and may cause decay.

Green Bean Casserole: Packed with veggies like Green Beans, Onions, and Mushrooms you’re sure to have a healthy mix of vitamins in this side dish. The only setback you might encounter is having this dish stuck in your teeth, so be sure to bring some extra dental floss. 

Mashed Potatoes: Easy on the teeth and gums, one staple for all Thanksgiving meals we can’t forget to mention are mashed potatoes. Loaded with pyridoxine, (vitamin B6) this side dish helps support your metabolism. This also includes more than 100 enzymes that help regulate your body’s immune system. 

Thanksgiving is the time of year to reflect on the things we are thankful for while celebrating family and food. Enjoy and then contact us to schedule a cleaning after the feast. We’re happy to hear from you.