Be Grateful For a Healthy Smile
There are so many things to be grateful for, one of which is a healthy smile. As you enjoy dinner this Thanksgiving, keep your teeth and gums healthy with smart food choices.
Skip the Sugar – Whether it’s pumpkin pie or a marshmallow-topped yam casserole, Thanksgiving dinner can be a delight for your sweet tooth. But all that sugar also serves up a feast for cavity-causing bacteria. If you’re cooking, consider swapping out some of the sugary elements. Also, limit your dessert portions and follow it with a glass of water.
Cut Down on Starches – Savory foods aren’t as well-known for causing decay, but the starch in sides like cornbread and stuffing can feed the same acid-producing bacteria as sugar. Mix up your plate to balance the starch with protein and fiber.
Avoid Enamel Stains – Brightly colored foods and drinks look great on the dinner table, but they can leave your enamel looking dull. Watch out for red (and white) wine, cranberry sauce and coffee. Some pies, like cherry and blueberry, also pose a risk. You can always schedule a cleaning for right after the holiday too!
Guard Against Acid Wear – Acid and enamel don’t mix. The acid in wine and cranberry juice can soften your enamel, leaving it more vulnerable to decay. Avoid acidic foods and drinks whenever possible. If you can’t skip them, lessen their impact with bites of other dishes and sips of water. Wait at least half an hour before brushing.
Load up on Colorful Vegetables – Fill your plate with an assortment of colorful veggies, full of smile-friendly vitamins and minerals. Red and orange veggies are usually high in vitamin C (good for gums), while leafy green vegetables are good sources of calcium (for strong teeth).
https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/tips-for-a-smile-friendly-thanksgiving.html
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