Are you already dreaming of roasted turkey, pumpkin pies, and hot cocoa? You’re not alone. With the holiday season upon us, we’re all looking forward to our favorite festive treats. However, some of our most beloved vittles aren’t great for our teeth and gums, especially if we don’t practice moderation. Luckily, our dentist in Denver is here to help you navigate this food-centered time of year.
Want to get your smile ready for the holidays? Contact Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO, today. Our team of trusted professionals can help you get ready with affordable and effective treatments, like dental cleanings and teeth whitening. Just call (303) 534-2626 to get scheduled today!
Yummy treats abound during this time of year. That’s why our dentist in Denver is here to help you determine which treats are best for your smile. So, stick around – in this blog, we tell you which foods to prioritize during the holidays.
Turkey vs. Ham
Turkey is often the star of Thanksgiving, and ham often takes center stage during Christmas. While both options are great sources of protein, their preparation may have differing effects on our oral health.
For example, many people opt for processed hams rather than whole hams to celebrate this festive time of year. But processed meats (like ham) can have serious implications for our oral health. Indeed, some research indicates that processed meats can significantly increase the risk of oral cancers.
So, when it comes to turkey vs. ham, our dentist in Denver recommends whole (never processed) meats, like whole turkey breast.
Sweet Potatoes vs. White Potatoes
In years past, the sweet potato has been crowned king of the tubers, mostly for its nutrients and numerous health benefits. But are sweet potatoes actually better than white potatoes? Perhaps not.
Both sweet potatoes and white potatoes contain essential nutrients, like vitamin B and potassium. So, really, the choice is up to you! Just remember – sweet potatoes loaded with sugary toppings can lead to dental decay much more quickly than mashed potatoes and gravy.
Pumpkin Pie vs. Pecan Pie
There’s nothing like a big slice of pie after a savory meal! But which pie is best for your smile – pumpkin or pecan?
Pumpkin pie contains immune system-boosting nutrients while pecan pie offers healthy fats, minerals, and fiber. However, pecan pie recipes often require double the amount of sugar compared to pumpkin pies. This additional sugar can spike blood sugar levels, create a breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria, and lead to inflammation. All of these factors can greatly impact oral health.
In the pumpkin pie vs. pecan pie debate, our dentist in Denver recommends pumpkin over pecan. Just remember to exercise moderation!
Get Ready for the Holidays with a Dentist in Denver
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the holiday season. But taking care of your teeth and gums is especially important during this time of year. Give your smile the gift it deserves by visiting a dentist in Denver, CO, today. You can contact Metropolitan Dental Care at (303) 534-2626, or you can message us online for appointments and more!
