4 Simple, Smile-Friendly Swaps for Your Thanksgiving Feast

And just like that… Thanksgiving is almost here! If you look forward to juicy turkey, delicious sides, and seasonal desserts all year long, don’t worry – you don’t have to stick to only fruits and vegetables for the sake of your oral health. You do, however, need to be mindful of what you fill your plate with to ensure your teeth and gums aren’t compromised leading into the new year. With this in mind, consider these four smile-friendly swaps on Thanksgiving.

1. Swap Pecan Pie for Pumpkin Pie

Although you don’t have to steer clear of the dessert table entirely, you do need to be selective about what you choose to indulge in. For example, while pecan pie is delicious, the nuts can easily get stuck between your teeth and the gooey filling can cling to them, increasing your risk of decay. So, consider opting for a slice of pumpkin pie instead! It’s equally as festive, but much more smile-friendly.

2. Swap Cranberry Sauce for Fresh Cranberries

For many people, cranberry sauce is a must-have. However, it’s often loaded with sugar, which makes it a recipe for disaster when it comes to your oral health. For this reason, it’s best to opt for fresh cranberries instead. That way, you get the delicious flavor without the added sugar. Plus, fresh fruits like these are packed with nutrients that actually benefit your oral and overall health!

3. Swap Buttery Rolls for Cooked Vegetables

When it is time to fill up your plate, don’t start with buttery rolls since starches like these increase your risk of tooth decay. Instead, reach for vegetables, like cooked carrots and sauteed Brussels sprouts. Not only will this help keep you satiated, but it will also ensure that your body gets the nutrients it needs to keep your teeth healthy and your gums infection-free.

4. Bone-In Meat for Sliced Kinds

Whether your family enjoys a classic turkey or honey-glazed ham, make sure to avoid the bone-in kind. After all, all it takes is one wrong bite for your tooth to break under the pressure, warranting an emergency visit to your dentist’s office. In other words, opting for sliced meats will dramatically reduce the chances of your festive holiday turning into a stressful afternoon in the treatment chair.

About the Practice

Dr. DiGrazia and the rest of our dental team at Somerset Dental Arts share an important goal: helping you maintain a healthy, happy smile. So, if you need to schedule a routine checkup or you’re struggling with a toothache and need to schedule an emergency exam, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (908) 722-2999. We wish you and your family a happy holiday season!