It’s no secret that beyond family time and catching up with friends, the holidays are all about food. But if you’re trying to protect your teeth, you might wonder which holiday dishes are best for your oral health. Fortunately, you don’t have to skip your favorite meals to keep your smile bright. Many of your favorite traditional foods are, in fact, dentist-approved! Here are some delicious holiday options you can enjoy without worrying about being on your dentist’s naughty list.
Cheese and Dairy for an Appetizer
Starting your meal with cheese or other dairy products is a great idea as they’re surprisingly tooth‑friendly. Cheese stimulates saliva, which helps neutralize acids in your mouth, while calcium and proteins strengthen enamel and help protect against cavities and stains. Even if you’re not a cheese fan, drinking milk with your meal provides similar protective properties.
Lean, Protein-Rich Centerpieces
Turkey, chicken, and other lean meats are fantastic for your teeth and gums. They’re packed with protein and phosphorus, which help keep your enamel strong and your gums healthy. They also require real chewing, which stimulates saliva flow, so enjoying a hearty serving of roasted turkey or chicken is a win for your taste buds and your teeth.
Healthy Veggies for a Side
Vegetables often get overlooked when the time comes to plan a menu, but they’re some of the best foods on the table for oral health. Roasted carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes, and winter squash are all soft, nutrient-rich, and gentle on your pearly whites.
Sweet potatoes, especially when baked rather than mashed with sugar, are a powerhouse food full of vitamin A, which supports healthy gums. Try a savory sweet potato option stuffed with feta and spinach, seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic for a truly delicious tooth-friendly side.
Fruit-Based Desserts
Sticky, chewy sweets cling to your teeth and raise your risk of cavities. So, you’re probably wondering how in the world you can indulge your sweet tooth while keeping your dentist happy. The secret? Fruit!
Options like baked apples, fruit crisps, or pumpkin pie (without the whip) are easier to rinse away after eating and offer more nutrients than pure-sugar alternatives. Just keep a glass of water handy while you chow down, and your smile will be safe.
As you can see, you don’t have to give up holiday favorites to protect your teeth. By choosing balanced, nutrient-rich foods and enjoying the sticky stuff in moderation, you can savor the flavor this season. Your dentist wants you to enjoy yourself, but if you need help, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment!
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we’re always glad to offer a helping hand during the holidays. Whether you need science-backed advice on your diet, a routine checkup and cleaning, or an emergency visit, our expert team is always waiting with a smile. Call (847) 577-7171 to schedule a consultation with us at our Arlington Heights office or visit our website to explore a full menu of services.