Thanksgiving Feasting Can Be Good for Your Teeth – Tips for Leftovers
Thanksgiving in this land of plenty, allows us to enjoy feast on delicious foods that have brought friends and families together for generations. Although there are many traditional foods that are indulgent, some of the standard dishes are good for the health of your teeth. Consider these Thanksgiving food facts for upcoming Thanksgivings and all those leftovers!!
Turkey
Turkey is usually the star of the show for Thanksgiving dinner. Besides tasting good, this lean protein can help create strong bones and teeth. One serving of roasted turkey contains 300 mg of phosphorus, which is more than 40 percent of the recommended daily intake. It is also rich in protein, B vitamins and selenium. Vitamin B3 or niacin, which helps prevent canker sores and bad breath.
Cranberries
Please pass the cranberries! Recent studies indicate compounds within the cranberry disrupt enzymes which contribute to creating plaque on your teeth. Cranberries are loaded with various vitamins, including Vitamin C which is essential for your skin, muscles, and bone. Cranberries are highly acidic, so rinse your mouth often with water as you eat the.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in Vitamins A and C, which help keep your gums healthy. Although they can be prepared in many ways, they are surprisingly delicious all on their own. If you prefer to candy your sweet potatoes with marshmallows and sugar, eat them sparingly and drink plenty of water with your meal to help wash away the sticky residue of the marshmallows.
Green Bean Casserole
Green beans are replete with vitamins K, C, and A, folic acid and fiber. Does your recipe call for mushrooms? Mushrooms are loaded with B vitamins which help minimize oral inflammation. No green bean casserole is complete without onions, which are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber and folic acid.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a starchy vegetable and cavity-causing bacteria love the sugars that are naturally in mashed potatoes, so limit your intake to small amounts and drink lots of water to wash away any food that remains in your mouth. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C, B6 and potassium. Potassium improves bone density and works with magnesium to keep blood from leaching calcium from your teeth and bones. The butter and milk used to mash contain calcium, which strengthens your bones and teeth. Don’t forget the gravy! In small amounts, the gravy adds a delectable flavor that is hard to beat and in small portions is okay once a year!
Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving feast would be complete without pumpkin pie. Pumpkin is a good source of vitamin A, which helps keep your gums healthy and builds your tooth enamel. Pumpkin pie contains sugar, so eat it shortly after dinner so the saliva in your mouth will help to wash away food debris.
After the Feast, Brush Your Teeth, But Wait For 30 Minutes
On Thanksgiving, like every other day, you need to brush your teeth. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating to brush, since brushing too soon can affect your tooth enamel, especially if you have eaten something acidic. Rinse your mouth with water to help wash away food debris while waiting to brush your teeth.
Regular Dental Visits
As you can see, the typical Thanksgiving feast can contribute to strong teeth and gums when eaten in moderation. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and to have regular checkups with Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS.
Dr. Evanson offers comprehensive high-quality dental services for your whole family! Please call our office at (720) 409-0008, or contact us online to make an appointment.
Enjoy healthy teeth on this special day as you gather with family and friends!
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