Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and while it’s easy to get lost in all the sweet treats and heavy dishes, there’s good news: you can still indulge while protecting your smile! Certain Thanksgiving foods aren’t just delicious – they’re great for your oral health, too. Today, a dentist in Denver is here to reveal five smile-friendly foods to add to your plate this holiday for a healthier, happier grin.
Want to get your smile ready for the holidays? Schedule a dental cleaning and check-up with a trusted dentist in Denver, CO, today! Contact Metropolitan Dental Care at (303) 534-2626 to learn more and get started!
1. Turkey
Turkey is the star of any Thanksgiving meal, and thankfully, it’s also a fantastic choice for your teeth.
Turkey is packed with protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues throughout your body, including your gums. Plus, according to our dentist in Denver, turkey contains phosphorus, a mineral that works alongside calcium to keep your teeth strong.
With every juicy bite, you’re not just savoring a delicious meal – you’re helping to strengthen your teeth!
2. Leafy Greens
Think of greens as nature’s little scrubbers. Leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, which makes you chew a bit more. According to our dentist in Denver, that extra chewing increases saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria from your teeth.
Additionally, leafy greens are packed with folic acid and vitamins that promote healthy gums and protect against gum disease. So, pile on the greens – they’re practically an edible toothbrush!
3. Cheese and Dairy
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same without a few cheesy appetizers or creamy mashed potatoes! Luckily, dairy products like cheese, milk, and yogurt are excellent for your smile.
Cheese is high in calcium, which strengthens your teeth and bones. The protein casein in cheese also helps neutralize acids in your mouth, which can reduce your risk of cavities.
So, go ahead and enjoy that cheese platter before the main course – our dentist in Denver says it’s a tasty way to guard against tooth decay!
4. Cranberries (the Fresh Kind!)
Cranberries are packed with polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help prevent plaque buildup. Fresh cranberries in particular may keep bacteria from sticking to your teeth, which helps reduce your risk of cavities.
Keep in mind that the sugar-loaded cranberry sauce isn’t quite as tooth-friendly. So, if you want to get those benefits, our dentist in Denver suggests sticking to fresh or sugar-free cranberries. Mix some into a salad or side dish for a tart, healthy twist!
5. Sweet Potatoes (Hold the Marshmallows!)
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and loaded with vitamins A and C, which are essential for keeping your gums healthy. Vitamin A, in particular, helps maintain the mucous membranes that line your gums, keeping them strong and resilient.
However, our dentist in Denver recommends skipping the marshmallow topping if you can. Those added sugars can be rough on your teeth. Instead, try roasting them with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, festive flavor that’s also smile-friendly!
Have a Toothsome Thanksgiving with Metropolitan Dental Care
This Thanksgiving, you don’t have to sacrifice your smile for a delicious meal. Learn more about smile-friendly foods at your next dental check-up with a dentist in Denver, CO. Contact Metropolitan Dental Care online or at (303) 534-2626 to schedule your visit now!
