Thanksgiving is a special time that is set aside each year to give thanks for one’s blessings. This holiday was originally held to celebrate good harvest, a healthy year and to enjoy family and friends. Not much has changed over the years. We still continue to gather with loved ones to celebrate and give thanks for life’s good fortunes.  We tend to feel our waistlines expand from all the delicious food we share. But have you ever thought about how your teeth are affected? Dr. Joy Lunan shares with you the best options for those pearlies this Thanksgiving. 

~ Cheese plates, nut bowls and fresh vegetables are great options for appetizers. Cheese and nuts both contain protein as well as calcium to help strengthen our teeth. Chewing on all those delicious raw veggies will stimulate saliva to keep your teeth clean. 

~ Turkey is, of course, the main dish on our Thanksgiving tables. Luckily, turkey is loaded with protein, low in fat and loaded with phosphorus. When phosphorus mixes with calcium and vitamin D it creates strong bones and teeth. So even though you may get a tad sleepy after this feast, rest assured, turkey is your go to option for a great smile.

Turkey may be the star of the table, but your sides can shine too! Try to take it easy on the heavy creams and gravy, instead opt for fiber rich fruits and vegetables including sweet potatoes, cranberries, green beans and pumpkins.

~ Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C. These vitamins help promote tissue growth and healthy gums. Vitamin A helps us to create saliva which helps us digest this feast while cleaning bacteria and food particles from our mouths. Try to skip the marshmallow topping if you can as these add extra calories. 

~ Cranberries are the hidden gem on your Thanksgiving table. These berries are a wonderful source of Vitamin C which helps us repair damaged tissues within our bodies. Bursting with antioxidants and fiber, they aid in degestion as well as act as a natural defense against illness. Even better, the manganese found in cranberries helps promote healthy bones and teeth. Try to sweeten them with pineapples, apples or oranges instead of using sugar as is typically done. The natural sugars in the fruit are a healthier option for your teeth and will add extra vitamins. 

~ Green beans are rich in vitamin C, fiber and minerals our bodies need. Like cranberries, green beans are a great source of manganese and also vitamin K. Green bean casserole is a favorite tradition in most homes. For the best nutritional value, try blanched green beans seaoned lightly with salt and pepper. If you are using the canned version of these beans, rinse in water first to remove any excess sodium. 

~ Pumpkins are a tradional decoration used for Thanksgiving, and who doesn’t love pumpkin pie?  But did you know they are also good for your teeth? Pumpkin pulp is loaded with enamel building vitamin A, fiber and potassium. Your teeth will even love their seeds! The seeds are a good source of magnesium, a nutrient that can strengthen teeth. 

The best way to enjoy Thanksgiving is to eat in moderation and remember to brush and floss afterwards. Getting rid of the “leftovers” will help you to avoid cavities. Dr. Joy Lunan and her staff wish you and your family a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving.