6 Thanksgiving Foods that are Good for your Teeth

By Kate Ranta on Nov 15, 2024 @ 11:10 AM

Okay -- we know when it comes to the holidays, just because foods aren't good for your oral health doesn't mean you won't stuff your face with them anyway. Passing up grandma’s famous sugary apple pie just isn’t an option. However, there is good news: many holiday foods on the Thanksgiving table are okay for your pearly whites!

You can take a page out of the recipe book from the first Thanksgiving and enjoy some beans, onions and, peas. Plus, here are six more nutritious options for you:

1. Turkey. Yep! Turns out the bird is good for your teeth. It’s high in protein, which, combined with calcium and vitamin D, helps keep teeth and bones strong.

2. Dairy. You know the secret ingredient to those mashed potatoes, right? Dairy! Dairy products are low in acid and sugar—which is good for your teeth. They are also high in calcium, which we’ve established helps strengthen teeth.

3. Cranberries. Cranberry sauce is a staple on the Thanksgiving table. Cranberries are rich in nutrients, including vitamins C and A, beta-carotene, and potassium, among others. They also help protect your teeth by interfering with bacteria in your mouth that form plaque. Best of all? If you make your own, you can control the amount of sugar that goes into it. Reducing sugar even a little goes a long way.

4. Orange Vegetables. Pumpkins, carrots, and squash, all contain vitamin A. Our bodies use vitamin A to form tooth enamel. So, keeping more orange veggies on your plate is great for your teeth!

5. Onions. Onions contain compounds that kill bacteria in your mouth that cause harm to your teeth and gums. Raw onions are best for this purpose, but we know they’re more likely to show up in other dishes for flavor.

6. Pomegranates—and other raw fruits. Pomegranates and other raw fruits are good for your teeth. Pomegranates in particular help remove plaque. And the high Vitamin C content keeps your gums healthy.

Again, we get it. You're most likely not going to be eating all tooth-friendly foods this Thanksgiving holiday. Just be sure to brush your teeth afterward and maintain good oral hygiene!

Remember, don’t let your oral hygiene habits slide during this busy holiday season!