Healthy Teeth Are Happy Teeth

If you’re anything like us, your teeth will probably be hard at work this Thanksgiving! As we settle down to remember what we all are thankful for this year, it is always important to keep in mind that certain foods at the Thanksgiving table may not be the best for our dental health! Want to know the foods you should try to avoid and the foods that may help your teeth? Read on!

Thanksgiving Drinks

Worst: We all love a good can of pop every now and then, especially around the holidays! Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which in turn release acids that can cause cavities. Also, alcohol decreases the saliva in your mouth, which means you’re not able to wash away as much food. Moderation is key! Enjoy responsibly 🙂
Best: Water provides your teeth and gums a way to get rid of sticky foods, plus it can help you shy away from overeating. If you need a break from water, try a glass of green or herbal tea — they have some great antioxidant properties that will promote the growth of healthy bacteria and ward off the bad ones!

Thanksgiving Appetizers

Worst: Candied nuts… yum! Unfortunately, these are probably the worst for our teeth. The stickiness transfers from nuts to teeth and makes it difficult for the sugar to come out, which can cause cavities. The calories stack up fairly fast, so you’ll get a double whammy against your teeth and waistline!
Best: Plates of cheese, raw nuts and vegetable crudités are great alternatives. Cheese and nuts both have loads of protein and calcium to help strengthen your teeth, and chewing on raw vegetables helps produce saliva to wash away bacteria.

Thanksgiving Main Dishes

Worst:  Anything loaded with starch, such as stuffing, rolls and sugary candied yams — these area Thanksgiving buffet for cavity-causing bacteria! Watch your portions carefully with these foods, and make sure to wash them down with some water.
Best: Turkey is not only delicious, but it is also your go-to, dental-health-friendly option in the plentiful Thanksgiving spread. It’s filled with protein, low in fat, and contains many nutrients to aid the growth of enamel!

Taylor Family Dentistry sincerely wishes all of you a wonderful and healthy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the time spent with families, and remember that we all have so much to be thankful for every day. We hope to see you and your pearly whites very soon!