Building a healthy plate this Thanksgiving

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November 21st, 2023



Illustration of a turkey

We all know holidays are a time to eat, drink & be merry with friends and loved ones. But late nights, busy schedules, and tempting treats make it a challenging time for healthy eating and keeping up with oral hygiene. You can still incorporate healthy choices while also enjoying yourself this Thanksgiving.

Illustrations of bowls full of fresh veggies like peppers, carrots and greens

If you are craving…

Something crunchy: try fresh vegetables with dip instead of chips. It’s more nutritious and better for your teeth!

Something sweet: reach for that fresh fruit rather than cookies or candy. Fruits are full of vitamins that help keep teeth and gums healthy.

Something salty: grab a handful of nuts, which are low in carbohydrates, rich in vitamins and a good source of fiber, making them a better choice compared to chips or crackers.

Something hearty: well, it’s turkey time! Turkey is high in protein and low in sugar— a very tooth-friendly choice. Pair it up with some mashed potatoes to get extra vitamin C, B6 and potassium. However, be wary of gravy, which can be high in fat and sugar. Eat in moderation.

Illustration of a piece of pumpkin pie on a plate with a fork and a dollop of whipped cream on top

If you are thinking we are out of our gourds to forget about pie on Thanksgiving, you would be right! 🥧 Topping off your meal with a tasty dessert is perfectly fine. It’s best to eat it right after a meal and drink plenty of water to keep the sugars from sticking to your teeth.

When the holiday fun is done, it’s time to thoroughly brush and floss so that your Thanksgiving leftovers are found in your fridge and not in your mouth.

Have a safe & healthy Thanksgiving! 🦃🦃🦃


This information in this post is for general educational purposes only and does not warrant or represent any information as related to health as specifically appropriate for you. It is not intended to be medical advice or replace the relationship that you have with your health care providers. You should always seek medical advice on any diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health care provider. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied.