There are plenty of reasons to celebrate this Thanksgiving, but nothing puts a damper on a family gathering like a cavity or sudden dental emergency. The food that is passed around the table looks mouth-watering, but could it spell disaster for your smile? Before you start filling your plate, consider these four tooth-friendly food swaps to protect your smile this holiday season.
Trade the Turkey Leg for the Sliced Variety
You might normally reach for the turkey leg first, but if you want to avoid accidentally chipping or breaking a tooth, swap it for the sliced kind. Turkey bones can damage your teeth, leaving chips and cracks that may need emergency care. If you prefer this type of meat, cut it off the bone before eating it. This can save you a trip to the dentist’s office, so you can keep enjoying time with family.
Swap Pecan Pie for Pumpkin
Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like pecan pie. Unfortunately, with about 31 grams of sugar per slice, it’s a disaster waiting to happen for your teeth. Add whipped cream, and the problem worsens. Plaque loves sugar, so when you eat too much, cavities can follow. It may not happen right away, but this false mindset that your teeth “are fine” will eventually catch up. Instead of serving yourself a slice of pecan pie, opt for pumpkin. It has less sugar and plenty of vitamin A, which helps keep your gums healthy.
Pass on Red Wine, Drink Water Instead
Red wine is common with Thanksgiving dinner, but if you want to keep your pearly whites shining bright, choose water. Like other types of alcohol, red wine contains sugar and is acidic. This means it will not mix well with your tooth enamel; instead, it can break it down. Not to mention, the dark pigment can leave stains behind. However, water can wash away debris and harmful particles, leaving your smile moist and free of possible discoloration.
Choose Veggies Over Dried Fruits
You’ll likely see a small plate or two filled with dried apricots, nuts, raisins, and similar snacks on the table. These might seem harmless, but chewy fruits can quickly lead to cavities. The texture sticks to the chewing surfaces of your teeth, making it hard to remove. As a result, bacteria and plaque form and erode your enamel. Fresh veggies are a safe, healthy swap, acting like small toothbrushes and helping protect your smile from harmful bacteria.
Small choices can make a big difference for your oral health, so instead of indulging in foods that will wreck your smile, choose those that will make this year’s feast one to remember.
About the Practice
Marvel Dental is fortunate to have a team of dentists who are committed to creating positive dental experiences for patients. Offering preventive dentistry to stop problems before they start, we can help you make the right choices when it comes to holiday food. If you want to keep your smile looking its best this time of year, visit our website or call (682) 772–3072 to schedule an appointment.