When it’s time to gather at grandma’s house for the annual family Thanksgiving, there’s a good chance that the table will be filled with all your favorite foods. With a combination of sweet and savory, it can be hard to figure out which ones should consist of your first round versus your second. But if you’re looking to make better decisions this year to ensure the health of your pearly whites, consider which foods you should fill your plate with so that you don’t spend the holidays with your emergency dentist.
What Are the Potential Dangers Associated with Thanksgiving Food?
Instead of ruling any foods out, most dentists encourage limiting access to certain holiday foods simply because of the amount of sugar and starch that they contain. Potatoes, bread, sauces, and of course, sweets should be consumed in moderation.
The reason is that bacteria love sugar and carbohydrates. Feeding on them, plaque begins to form, resulting in what eventually becomes cavities.
Being mindful of how much of these foods you eat can ensure that you avoid spending more time in the emergency dentist’s office as opposed to with family and friends.
Which Foods Are Best for Healthy Teeth?
Making healthier choices at Thanksgiving can still allow you to enjoy your favorites without putting your teeth and gums at risk of decay.
Some of the most beneficial foods you can eat this time of year include:
- Turkey because of its high protein content as well as its ability to help with remineralization because of the phosphorous it contains.
- Raw vegetables because of the vitamins A and C that they contain. Eating more of these green veggies can help to minimize gum disease.
- Sweet potatoes (without marshmallows and brown sugar) are great sources of vitamins A, C, and B6, all of which are filled with essential nutrients that are good for the body.
Cranberries and pumpkin dishes are also nutritious, but you do need to be careful of any that might contain sugar (i.e., cranberry sauce or pumpkin pie). Moderation is key when faced with these kinds of food items. Staying on top of your oral hygiene routine will ensure that any bad bacteria is removed before going to bed.
The holidays don’t have to consist of bland foods, especially when looking to take better care of your smile. Load up on those items mentioned above and don’t be afraid to enjoy some of the sweet or starchy treats. Just make sure you’re practicing good oral hygiene to avoid cavity-stricken teeth!
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Rowley is a dentist in Melbourne who cares about the health, longevity, and success of patients’ smiles. Leading the team at Rowley Family Dentistry, he aims to offer helpful tips and recommendations that make it possible to navigate the holidays and all the delicious food without suffering from nagging toothaches, cavities, or infections. If you are interested in learning how you can take better care of your smile while away for the holidays, contact us at (321) 414-3005.