Dentist-friendly Thanksgiving dishes

Pass the pecan pie, it’s almost Thanksgiving! While you’re preparing for your family’s feast, it can be easy to stick to the classic Thanksgiving dishes: cranberry sauce, stuffing and pie. However, most of those dishes—especially the chewy and sticky pecan pie—are not the best for your smile’s health. This year, add a few dentist-friendly Thanksgiving dishes to your spread. 

We promise these dishes will keep your smile and your taste buds happy! 

Roasted vegetable platter 

Bring on the color and flavor with a roasted vegetable platter! This simple side dish can be customized to fit your family’s taste. For ultimate smile-healthy nutrients, we recommend using a mixture of carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and cauliflower.   

Spinach kale salad 

Leafy greens are packed with vitamins and minerals that have been linked to oral health. Spinach and kale are also great as a base for a fall salad. Try adding pears, pine nuts, olive oil and balsamic vinegar to elevate your salad for Thanksgiving  

Cheese platter 

Your smile loves calcium and cheese is full of it. Try creating a cheese platter as an appetizer for your guests this holiday. It’s recommended that you include a mixture of firm and aged cheeses such as Monterey Jack and Cheddar with soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert.  

Turkey 

For our turkey lovers, you’d be happy to know this Thanksgiving favorite is also great for your oral health. Turkey is a lean meat full of phosphorous, which helps strengthen teeth and bones.  

After the Thanksgiving holiday is over, be sure your family’s calendar is up to date on dental cleanings! Schedule your next visit with Jackson Dental by calling (573) 243-5200 or visiting our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo.