We often think of Halloween as being the holiday that makes dentists shudder. While the sugar-centric night can certainly wreak havoc on your teeth, we still need to be vigilant during other holidays, as well. Thanksgiving, for instance, is centered around a large meal with all sorts of different foods — which means lots of different potential outcomes for the health of your teeth. In today’s blog, your Allen, TX, dentist discusses the different Thanksgiving foods and how they can affect your smile.
Turkey
Turkey is the staple of Thanksgiving feats. It provides plenty of flavor and protein to hungry guests. It ultimately poses no harm to your teeth outside of getting caught between them. If this does happen, simply flossing should help. That said, you should be doing this every night, as is. It is, after all, one of the best ways to keep your smile bright and healthy — in addition to visiting the dentist for cleanings and exams.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a polarizing dish, but it is a mainstay for a reason. It is often sugary and acidic, which isn’t the best for your teeth. Its color can also briefly stain your mouth (but that’s more of an aesthetic issue). Overall, it isn’t that great for the health of your teeth, but it won’t cause any serious damage. Just be wary of it sticking to and between your teeth.
Mashed Potatoes And Gravy
This is one of the most popular Thanksgiving foods and is also a delight to eat all year round. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, B6, and potassium. It is also exceedingly tasty. That said, it is a starchy dish, and bacteria gravitate to the sugars that make up starch. Gravy also isn’t too healthy for you, so while this is not great food — health-wise — just be sure to brush your teeth after you eat. We would never suggest not eating this delicious dish.
Pumpkin Pie
This sweet dessert usually only makes an appearance once a year, so do not shy away from enjoying a slice. If made with real pumpkin, it will contain Vitamin A which strengthens your enamel and is beneficial to the health of your gums. On the downside, it is sweet and contains plenty of sugar — both in the pie and the accompanying whipped cream or ice cream. Make sure you eat it after dinner because sweet items promote saliva production, which can help wash away food particles stuck on your teeth.
Contact Us For More Smile-Healthy Tips
We all hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Even though we think it is important to be aware of the effects your foods can have, we still encourage you to relax and enjoy yourself this Thursday. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact your Allen, TX, dentist, Dr. Torrens-Parker, by calling 469-342-6644.
