Thanksgiving is drawing near, and you probably can’t wait to enjoy the big meal with your loved ones. However, if you don’t want to have to visit the dentist for a major issue after the holiday, you may want to focus on foods that are good for your teeth. Fortunately, there are plenty of Thanksgiving staples that can have a positive impact on your oral health; below are just 4 examples.
1. Turkey
When you think Thanksgiving, you automatically think turkey. This dish contains phosphorus, which is an essential mineral for maintaining healthy teeth and a strong jaw. Additionally, turkey is high in protein, which aids the body in absorbing calcium; this is important since a calcium deficiency could easily lead to tooth decay.
Just remember to clean your smile after your meal. Turkey has a tendency to get caught between the teeth; the longer it’s there, the more likely it is to attract cavity-causing bacteria. As such, you should make a point of flossing as soon as possible to get rid of the leftover food.
2. Green Bean Casserole
Plenty of vegetables are good for your mouth, and the green bean casserole that’s often served at Thanksgiving is a great example. Green beans contain a lot of vitamin A and vitamin C, both of which are known to help promote good gum health. To make sure that your green beans are as healthy as possible, think carefully about what you top them with; toasted almonds can be an excellent option.
3. Macaroni and Cheese
Is macaroni and cheese part of your family’s Thanksgiving meal? If so, putting it on your plate could end up doing your smile more good than you might realize. Not only does the cheese contain plenty of tooth-strengthening calcium, but it also has vitamin D, which makes it easier for your body to absorb said calcium.
4. Cranberries
If you’re worried about tooth decay, you should make sure that cranberries are part of your Thanksgiving meal. The flavonoids in cranberries make it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate on your teeth, thus lowering your risk for plaque buildup that could ultimately lead to cavities.
It should be noted that many cranberry dishes are high in sugar. Luckily, there are sugar-free cranberry sauce recipes that offer more smile-friendly alternatives.
A healthy smile is always something to be thankful for. Make sure that your teeth and gums are well-protected this Thanksgiving by planning a meal that includes plenty of foods that promote oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Saba K. Abernethy has previously served as the Chairperson of Continuing Education for the Massachusetts Academy of General Dentistry. She is also a founding member of The Study Club for Dental Excellence. At Diamond Hill Dental in Cumberland, she is proud to welcome all kinds of patients and provide them with dental care tailored to their unique needs. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Abernethy, visit her website or call (401) 333-2700.