The Smile Daily

By Christina Thomas, RDH As Thanksgiving approaches, we here at Norge Dental Center would like to express our gratitude to our patients and dental family. This time of year gives us the opportunity to reconnect and focus on all the blessings of the year behind and ahead of us.While we gather with loved ones and share feasts, here are a few helpful tips to help keep our smiles as thankful as our hearts.  Let's have a look around the typical Thanksgiving dinner table!

• Turkey. The the main course and highlight of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner is the Turkey. Turkey contains Phosphorus, which is a main component in the development of teeth and rebuilding of enamel. Be careful of the turkey bones though, which can lead to broken teeth.
• Cranberries. As a side, fresh cranberries are an anti-inflammatory fruit full of Flavonoid which helps to prevent bacteria from sticking to our teeth.  Watch out for the cranberry sauces however, because they may contain additional sugars which attack the enamel and can lead to decay.  
• Macaroni & Cheese. If you are having Macaroni and cheese, this side dish is heavy on calcium which helps to strengthen teeth.
• Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes. When it comes to potatoes, be mindful of the starch that bacteria love to feed on. Sweet potatoes are a better option that contains Vitamin A and can stimulate saliva which helps to alleviate xerostomia.  
• Vegetables. Making sure to get your recommended serving of Vegetables is important.  Green beans, spinach, and brussel sprouts are great options that contain high levels of folic acid which help prevent gum disease.

As our main course comes to a close and desserts are calling our name, we are reminded that moderation is our best weapon today! Low sugar and smaller portions will keep our teeth happy. Water and tea are great beverages to sip on throughout the day.  Choosing these over coffee or sodas will reduce the amount of erosion that teeth undergo. Coffee can also stain our teeth, as does red wine.   Somewhere between the last plates being washed and falling asleep on the couch by the fireplace, make sure to take time to brush and floss. Remember that maintaining good oral health is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves.  We hope you have a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving. See you after the holiday!