It turns out that many of your favorite Thanksgiving dishes are actually not too bad for your teeth. Here is a look at some of the favorites and how they stack up.
Turkey
Packed with protein, the star of the Thanksgiving dinner table is also a star when it comes to tooth health. Just remember to floss and brush to get any little pieces that might get stuck in your teeth.
Cranberry sauce
This Thanksgiving staple can go either way. Cranberries on their own are a superfood and one of the most antioxidant-rich foods you can find. However, store-bought varieties of cranberry sauce tend to have a lot of added sugar so instead of buying it, try making your own at home! Plus, it can stain your teeth so enjoy it in moderation.
Sweet potatoes
This vitamin-packed dish serves up Vitamin C, Thiamine, Niacin, Vitamin A, Fiber, and Potassium all of which are great for healthy teeth. Just avoid making them candied, which can add extra sugar.
Green bean casserole
Made with green beans which are a great source of Vitamins A, C, and K this dish isn’t a bad option. Just skip the starchy fried onions.
Mashed potatoes
Unfortunately, this dinner table staple contains a lot of starch, which can attract bacteria and lead to cavities. Instead of loading your plate with potatoes, try adding vegetables such as carrots or green beans instead.
Pecan pie
While delicious, this pie is your teeth’ worst nightmare. Not only does it contain hard nuts that can get stuck in your teeth but it also takes a lot of sugar and syrup to make its filling. Instead of pecan pie, try adding pumpkin pie to your plate. Pumpkin is a nutrient-dense food that contains a ton of awesome and important minerals like zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C.
While it’s important to take care of your teeth, it’s also important to enjoy your holiday. So go ahead and indulge in all of your favorite foods. Just make sure you brush & floss regularly and wash them down with lots of water.
Happy Thanksgiving!