Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, great food! But not all Thanksgiving favorites are kind to your teeth. Your trusted Denver dentist wants you to enjoy the holiday without harming your smile.
Whether you want to prepare for Thanksgiving or get ready for the New Year, November is the perfect time to schedule a checkup and cleaning at Metropolitan Dental Care. Contact our dentists in Denver, CO, at (303) 534-2626 to reserve your appointment today!
By choosing tooth-friendly options, you can celebrate while keeping your teeth strong and healthy. So, let’s look at which foods your Denver dentist says to enjoy and which ones to skip for better oral health this Thanksgiving.
Try Turkey and Avoid Sugary Glazes
According to our Denver dentist, lean turkey is one of the best foods for your smile. It’s packed with protein, phosphorus, and essential minerals that help rebuild and protect enamel.
However, avoid sugary glazes or sauces. These often cling to teeth and feed bacteria that cause decay. Your Denver dentist recommends sticking with plain, roasted turkey instead. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and won’t leave behind unwanted residue.
Pairing turkey with homemade, low-sugar cranberry sauce may be an ideal way to protect your smile during the holidays. Evidence suggests that cranberries may have antimicrobial properties, which can prevent bacterial overgrowth and tooth decay.
Try Fresh Vegetables Instead of Creamy Casseroles
Crisp, raw vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, celery, and green beans act as inherent toothbrushes, gently scrubbing away plaque while you eat.
Furthermore, your Denver dentist says crunchy veggies stimulate saliva, which helps counteract acids and protect enamel. Not a fan of raw veggies? Roasted or steamed vegetables are also excellent choices for those with sensitive teeth or dental restorations.
In contrast, creamy casseroles (especially those made with added sugar) can leave behind a sticky film on your teeth. This residue encourages bacterial growth and plaque buildup. Your Denver dentist recommends choosing lightly seasoned or steamed veggies instead.
Try Sweet Potatoes Without Marshmallows
Sweet potatoes are a Thanksgiving classic that’s naturally packed with vitamins A and C that support healthy gums and tissue repair. When baked or mashed without extra sugar, they’re a nutritious and smile-safe side dish.
But when covered in marshmallows or brown sugar, sweet potatoes can turn into a cavity trap. Sticky sugars cling to enamel and increase acid production in your mouth.
Your Denver dentist recommends ditching sugary toppings and seasoning sweet potatoes with cinnamon or nutmeg instead. These spices add warmth and sweetness naturally without harming your teeth.
Try Water or Milk Instead of Sugary Drinks
Your Denver dentist advises drinking plenty of water during your Thanksgiving feast to wash away food debris and lessen acid attacks. Water also helps keep your mouth moist, which protects against decay.
Milk is another dentist-approved choice because it contains calcium and casein, which strengthen enamel and help balance oral pH levels.
Avoid sodas, sweet teas, acidic wines, and alcohol mixed with sugar because they can erode enamel and dry out your mouth. If you indulge, rinse with water afterward.
Denver Dentist Delivers Healthy, Grateful Smiles All Year Long
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean dental damage. With a few smart swaps, you can enjoy all your favorite flavors while keeping your teeth healthy.
If you’re due for your cleaning, schedule an appointment at Metropolitan Dental Care before the holidays get too busy. Click here to begin booking your appointment in Denver, CO, or call (303) 534-2626 to coordinate your care today!
