Feast on Thanksgiving? We Say YES!

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is just about here? Well, it is, and we have so much to be thankful for, especially for our loved ones, friends, and, of course, our dental health!

Want another thing to be thankful for? Recent research has shown that the typical, bountiful meals that you make for Thanksgiving (if planned correctly) are not only delicious but also healthy for your body, teeth, and your gums, too!

Our bodies need many different essential vitamins and minerals to stay strong and healthy. Well, so do your teeth and gums! Guess what? Many of those essential vitamins and minerals can be found in many of the foods in the Thanksgiving meal that you prepare!

See below which foods are the best for you and why!

Turkey – The highlight and main event of any Thanksgiving meal, turkey is high in phosphorous, which is healthy for developing teeth. The high amount of phosphorous also helps rebuild and remineralize your teeth and the bones in your jaw! That’s just one more excuse to gobble all the turkey you want this Thanksgiving!

Sweet Potatoes – Are you a sweet potato fan? Have you been told over and over that sweet potatoes are bad for you? Well, you’re in luck! Recent research is showing that sweet potatoes are much healthier and nutritious than what was once thought, even more so than regular white potatoes! Sweet potatoes are also loaded with nutrients and lots of vitamins, including vitamins A, C, and B6, so load ‘em up on your plate!

Green and Winter Vegetables – Vegetables are important for a well-balanced diet as it is, but green vegetables and winter vegetables are even more essential for your gums! They are packed with Vitamin A and Vitamin C, both of which are essential for gum health and also for the repair of gum diseases like gingivitis and even periodontitis!

Cranberries – Rejoice, cranberry lovers! You can eat cranberries without any shame or remorse! These fruits contain flavonoids, which can prevent bacteria from sticking to your teeth and forming plaque! Remember, bacteria are the ones responsible for tooth decay and gum infections, so be sure to chow down on some sweet cranberries!

Pumpkin Pie – Yes, we said it. Pumpkin pie is actually a good source of Vitamin C and calcium, which is essential for gum health and developing teeth and bone maintenance. Now, we’re not saying that you can go and eat whole pumpkin pies, but you most certainly can indulge in a piece or two!

Remember, wellness for your whole body, including your smile, starts with prevention and good nutrition. All of us here at Mastroianni Orthodontics wish you an enjoyable, nutritious, and stress-free Thanksgiving and holiday season!

And if you want to come in for an appointment, be sure to call us in Glen Carbon at (618) 288-0600 or in Swansea at (618) 622-3377 or visit us online at www.amazingsmiles.com!