November has arrived, and if you’re like about 90% of the American population, you’re gearing up for Thanksgiving. This is the perfect time of year to pull out your favorite cookbooks and pick which holiday dishes to enjoy if you’re hosting. Otherwise, it’s time to get excited to enjoy all your favorite fall treats!
However, you don’t want to neglect your dental health and end up with cavities or gum disease from all the goodies. Continue reading to learn about three dentist-approved foods you can enjoy this autumn that support your smile rather than harm it!
Menu Item #1: Turkey
Whether you prefer your turkey roasted or smoked, this lean protein is a traditional staple at Thanksgiving. Although it’s infamous for its tryptophan content, which supposedly makes you drowsy, it can also strengthen your teeth!
Turkey is full of phosphorus that partners with calcium in your body to reinforce your enamel so your teeth are less vulnerable to decay. It also contains B vitamins, which help reduce sources of inflammation in your mouth to keep your gums healthy.
Menu Item #2: Charcuterie Cheese
Some folks prefer lighter finger foods over the holidays so they can mix and mingle while they eat. If you’re looking for a light bite that won’t break your grin, why not head to the nearest charcuterie board? There is usually an assortment of meats, fruits, and vegetables to choose from to satiate your appetite.
Not only that, but these party platters also usually contain sliced or cubed cheese to snack on. Like most other dairy products, cheese is full of calcium to fortify your teeth and prevent potential damage. Plus, it coats them with a protective film to mitigate the impact of any overly acidic foods you eat. If you’re tired of the standard options like cheddar or colby jack, you can indulge in specialty cheeses for extra flavor this holiday season.
Menu Item #3: Green Bean Casserole
Another popular dish commonly found at the dinner table this time of year is green bean casserole. Whether you prefer yours topped with bacon, onions, or some other ingredient, there are many ways to spice them up for the holidays.
Furthermore, these stringy vegetables are full of vitamin A, which helps produce saliva, your mouth’s natural defense mechanism. Your spit has a nearly neutral pH balance to prevent acid damage to your enamel and rinses away unwanted bacteria, bits of food, or other debris to keep your mouth clean. Green beans also have vitamin C to support healthy connective tissues.
Now that you know a few wholesome foods that support your dental condition, you can keep your grin looking and feeling great into the new year!
About the Author
Dr. Robert J. Sanker has 40+ years of experience helping people build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his dental degree at Georgetown University School of Dentistry in 1979 and became a Specialist in Prosthodontics in 1985. Now, he offers a full array of services to meet all your needs conveniently under one roof. He combines a thoughtful and thorough approach with state-of-the-art equipment to devise individualized treatments that provide accurate, long-lasting results. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (301) 463-4232.