Everyone has their Thanksgiving favorites. Stuffing, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce – and of course, turkey! – are just a few of the most popular dishes. But even if these staples are a crowd pleaser at your family’s dinner table, many of them can have some not-so-great effects on your teeth. Keep reading to learn how you can have a Thanksgiving that’s better for your smile.
Avoid As Much Sugar as Possible
It’s hard to resist a sugary treat, especially around the holidays. Unfortunately, sugar accelerates bacteria growth, putting your teeth at greater risk for decay. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have to skip dessert, though. There are plenty of low-sugar, pumpkin-themed dessert recipes on the internet, as well as creative alternatives like chocolate-covered strawberries and yogurt parfaits.
Mind the Starches
The problem with starchy foods like cornbread, stuffing, and mashed potatoes is that they also fuel harmful bacteria. It can be tempting to fill up your plate with these comfort foods, but stay strong and keep your meal balanced. Grab smaller portions if you’re dedicated to trying a little bit of everything, or if you’re committed to a favorite starch, make sure you’re eating more fiber and protein.
Be Careful with Acidic Options
When consumed in excess, acidic foods and drinks can wear down your enamel, leaving your teeth more vulnerable to decay and potentially causing sensitivity. Don’t get carried away with any wine that might be available, and resist the urge to drown your turkey in cranberry sauce. Opting for water as your beverage of choice for the night can help mitigate the effects of acid.
Don’t Be Shy with The Vegetables
You’ll have to be careful of green bean or broccoli casseroles that often contain plenty of starches, but generally, it’s hard to go wrong with a healthy serving of vegetables! They have all kinds of good nutrients that benefit teeth; the leafy green kind in particular are packed with calcium, which promotes strong pearly whites.
At the end of the day, it’s still important to enjoy Thanksgiving with your friends and family. Since it is an extremely food-centered tradition, part of that often means partaking in dishes like grandma’s specialty double-chocolate pie. You don’t have to avoid your long-awaited favorites completely, or sacrifice your oral health! Just keep these food facts in mind when you’re filling your plate and remember to brush your teeth before surrendering to the turkey coma!
About the Practice
Dr. Moaz Zanbarakji and Dr. Yazan Abou Zakhem are highly experienced dentists with impressive accomplishments. You can trust them to take good care of your oral health this holiday season with quality preventative services like checkups and cleanings. Between their top-notch skills and friendliness, you can rest assured your visit will be a positive one! To contact Dr. Moaz and Dr. Zakhem’s office, call 860-928-4352.