7 Mouth Friendly Thanksgiving Dishes

Before tucking into those mashed potatoes and pie this week, consider swapping out caries-friendly foods for healthier options. Here are 7 mouth friendly Thanksgiving dishes.

1. Fresh fruit

Ditch sugary, acidic, stain-causing cranberry sauce for fresh fruits, such as apples. Munching on crisp pieces of fruit promotes saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles.

2. Turkey

Have a clear conscious when you’re piling your plate with turkey. It’s jam-packed with protein and vitamin D, which are essential to enamel health.

3. Veggies

Dark leafy vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins A, C, and K; minerals; folic acid; and calcium for gingival and enamel health. And crunching on carrots and celery helps stimulate saliva flow.

4. Cheese

Packed with calcium and the protein casein, cheese provides plenty of protein, a requirement for strong bones and teeth. Calcium also helps protect tooth enamel and prevent against tooth decay.

5. H₂0

Even if water does not pair well with green bean casserole and macaroni and cheese, skip the red wine and coffee, which stain teeth and can cause enamel erosion. Have a glass of water instead.

6. Yams

The key to enjoying yams without any guilt is to swap candied yams for naturally baked sweet potatoes. By removing the marshmallows from this dish, your gingiva and teeth will benefit from vitamins A and C.

7. Pumpkin pie

Okay, so the added sugar and whipped cream topping are not oral health friendly but pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving staple. Enjoy all that pumpkin has to offer—vitamins A and C—but make sure to get rid of all caries-causing bacteria by flossing, brushing, and using a mouthrinse that night.

Use the share buttons below to share these tips with your colleagues!