The holidays are here, and with them come all the joys of the season – lights and decorations, time with friends and family, and those special treats we only get this time of year. The best way to enjoy the holiday festivities and keep your oral health intact is to balance those sticky, sugary foods with some that actually benefit your teeth and gums. We promise it’s not as hard as you might think!
Fruit & Vegetable Platter
Every gathering has one! Not only do fruits, such as apples, strawberries, and kiwis, add some natural sweetness to your plate, they also scrub your teeth when you eat them. The natural fibers of the fruits combine with saliva in the mouth and help wash away food particles and stain-causing bacteria. Vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, and cucumbers also help clean your teeth and gums by removing food particles that can build up into plaque.
Deviled Eggs
We all have that one relative who swears their Deviled Eggs can’t be beat! This year, let them know that those delicious bites actually boost oral health. The egg yolks are a great source of vitamin D, which strengthens bone, and the selenium in eggs helps cure and protect oral lesions. Additionally, eggs have vitamin b2, also known as riboflavin, which plays an important role in preventing mouth sores and reducing inflammation.
Turkey
Often the holiday table centerpiece, turkey contains more than tryptophan (the nutrient blamed for after-dinner drowsiness). It also has phosphorous, which works in tandem with calcium to help produce strong bones and teeth. So go ahead and get your share of the bird!
Nuts & Cheese
As if we needed another reason to love a good charcuterie board! Not only are nuts loaded with vitamins and minerals, they also contain fatty acids and protein that benefit your brain and general health. Plus, the fatty acids in nuts help gum health. One word of caution - try to stick with non-cooked, unsalted nuts when possible. Cheese strengthens tooth enamel and increases saliva production. Bonus - the calcium and high levels of protein in cheese are also great for your overall health.
Salmon
Many holiday gatherings include salmon or Lox with cream cheese. Cream cheese has the same benefits to your health as other cheeses, and salmon is fantastic for your oral health. Salmon has vitamin D, phosphorous, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which improve teeth health and strength, gum health, and the overall health of your body.
Pumpkin Pie
We saved the best for last! Even though most pumpkin pies have a lot of sugar, pumpkin also has lots of vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy gums. Just be sure to brush after enjoying your piece!
Contact Our Team
As your dental care provider, we’re here to help you create and maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine all year long. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our dental team.