Thanksgiving is almost here and we have a lot to be thankful for. As you hold your Thanksgiving feast this year and gather family and friends close share some food for good dental health along with the good company.
Most Thanksgiving meals are bountiful, hearty affairs. Amazingly many of these foods can be beneficial to help you keep your teeth healthy and beautiful.
There are many vitamins and nutrients in a Thanksgiving feast. Take for example Vitamins A, C and D, phosphorus and calcium. These will benefit your entire body as well as your teeth.
So where will you find these helpful vitamins?
Turkey: Turkey is high in phosphorus. Phosphorus is super beneficial for developing teeth but can help rebuild teeth and bones of the jaw.
Greens and Winter Vegetables: Greens as well other winter vegetables (beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots and celery) contain Vitamins A and C which are instrumental in repairing gums from periodontal disease.
Sweet potatoes: You will find a ton of nutrients in sweet potatoes including Vitamins A, C and B6. Sweet potatoes are digested easier than white potatoes and are considered more nutritious as well. Of course, they are helpful to maintain healthy teeth.
Pumpkin: When you make your pumpkin pies know that you are also loading up on vitamin C and calcium. These are important to the maintenance of bones and to developing teeth. Be sure and brush those sugars off your teeth after eating a slice though.
Cranberries: Flavonoids are what you will find in Cranberries. Flavonoids prevent bacteria from sticking to your teeth and forming plaque. This bacteria is what is responsible for tooth decay. Many people add sugar to their cranberry sides. Instead sweeten with agave, stevia or splenda.
Your whole body needs to be healthy but teeth need attention as well. Start with good nutrition and many dental problems can be prevented.
As Thanksgiving rolls around, be thankful for all you have, including a healthy smile.