November has arrived, and if you’re like 80% to 90% of Americans who celebrate Thanksgiving, you might already be looking forward to the big feast. Whether you plan to celebrate with friends and family or have a solo meal planned out this year, there are plenty of seasonal flavors to tempt your tastebuds.
However, don’t forget about your dental health! Many foods this time of year can damage or stain your teeth if you don’t take the proper precautions. To preserve your grin this autumn, why not fill up on these three dentist-approved dining options instead?
Smile-Friendly Food #1: Turkey
Did you know that an estimated 46 million turkeys are eaten every Thanksgiving? This favorite fowl is served in homes nationwide this time of year. Not only does it contain tryptophan that can leave you feeling drowsy after dinner, but it also can support your oral health!
This buttered bird also contains lean protein, calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, all of which are necessary ingredients for your body to build strong teeth and bones. That means eating a hefty slice can help your teeth better resist tooth decay and other injuries.
Smile-Friendly Food #2: Charcuterie Cheese
You’re in luck if you prefer to nibble on finger foods throughout the big day! Many hosts provide trays full of fruits, veggies, meats, and specialty cheeses to enjoy as appetizers. Fortunately, cheese is full of calcium to fortify your enamel to help prevent common dental problems like cavities, chips, and cracks.
Not only that, but cheese contains a particular protein called casein, which coats your teeth in a protective film to counteract potential acid damage.
Smile-Friendly Food #3: Dark Chocolate
If you have a powerful sweet tooth, you might struggle to resist the many cookies, pies, and candies popular in autumn. Although these treats are incredibly delicious, they’re also full of sugar that attracts unhealthy bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Furthermore, overly hard and chewy candies are notorious for chipping teeth or dislodging restorations.
Why not stick to dark chocolate to help you resist indulging in too many desserts this year? It’s full of antioxidants to help neutralize free radicals, which can harm the tender tissues of your mouth. Researchers have found that it can help fight bad breath and prevent gum disease, and it melts in your mouth, so it won’t injure your teeth.
Making a few conscientious decisions about your eating habits this holiday season can keep your smile happy and healthy into the new year!
About the Author
Dr. Deidra Harrison-McClain enjoys helping people enhance their daily quality of life by improving their dental condition. She completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Meharry Medical College in Nashville, where she graduated at the top of her class. Now, she proudly offers a wide array of services to patients of all ages conveniently under one roof. She combines a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to create and deliver personalized treatment plans made just for you. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or call (615) 859-0188.