Thanksgiving is probably the only day of the year you can stuff your face with food on purpose. While it may be alright to binge eat on this day, it is still important to be aware of which foods are safe for your teeth and which are not as safe. Here are some tips on how to be mindful of your oral health on Thanksgiving:
- Pick Vegetables/Greens over the rest: While Thanksgiving foods are not known for their nutrition, you can still try to eat healthy. Try opting for brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and gravy over the more fatty foods such as mac ’n cheese, stuffing, and green bean casserole. These choices are not only safer for your teeth, but overall body, as well.
- Eat Less Sugar: The best part of Thanksgiving is all the mouthwatering, sugary foods and pies. Try to find recipes that use less sugar or healthier substitutes, such as honey or stevia. If you eat your pie with a side of ice cream, consider leaving the ice cream out entirely. However, if you do not want to eliminate sugar, try smaller portions instead. Afterwards, be sure to rinse your mouth with water to prevent any sugar from causing plaque buildup on your teeth.
- Avoid Stains: Many Thanksgiving foods contain vibrant coloring that could stain your teeth. Be mindful of foods such as cranberry sauce, vinaigrette salad dressings, and select pies (blueberry/cherry). Additionally, be cautious of drinks such as tea and wine. The high acidic concentration in these foods can wear away your tooth enamel, the outer protective covering of your teeth.
If you notice stains or discoloration on your teeth after Thanksgiving, book a appointment with us for consult at howardsmilescenter.com.
Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!
-Family Dental Team