You and your family may be excited about Thanksgiving coming up. You might be preparing your favorites along with theirs, but there are some dishes you should definitely make. Certain ones can actually be beneficial for your child’s growing teeth and oral health! Better yet, many are classics they may want to reach for anyway. Here are several you should know, and how they help tiny grins.
Main Course to Let Your Child Dig Into
Many say it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without the turkey! It’s the star in many feasts, and it’s rich in nutrients that help your child’s mouth. It’s a lean protein that’s rich in phosphorus, which helps support tooth mineralization and keep enamel strong. Not only that, but the protein can support tissue repair in their gums!
Tasty Sides Your Child Will Love
The creaminess that macaroni and cheese can entice your loved one to ask for a scoop. This tasty side dish is often filled with milk and, of course, cheese! Both are high in calcium, which will work with the phosphorus in turkey to strengthen your child’s smile.
Green beans, whether in a casserole or sauteed in sesame oil, are full of nutrients. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, K, fiber, and folic acid. These all come into play when it comes to enamel, teeth, and gum health. By playing a role in each, your loved one’s mouth will get the boost it needs to stay strong.
End The Meal on a Sweet Note
As a way to finish up with dinner, your child may now be craving something sweet. They might’ve saved some room despite all the delicious savory foods they had. It might seem surprising, but some desserts can be good for their growing grin. For instance, pumpkin pie can be a tasty choice! Although it still has some sugar, it has plenty of vitamin A in it. This can help support gum health, just be sure they don’t overindulge.
Aside from sweet potatoes, which have vitamin C and A, you can also offer sliced pears and yogurt dip! This fruit can stimulate saliva production, neutralizing any harmful acids and washing away bacteria. Yogurt is also rich in calcium and phosphates, so this option is a simple and easy one to make!
With the many foods above, you may be more than ready to start your shopping list! Picking the right foods to have on the table can be both delicious and good for your child’s smile. That way, their tiny teeth stay in great shape for the holiday and beyond.
About the Author
Dr. Nisha Mehta earned her dental degree from the University of Illinois Chicago. She then continued her education to complete specialty training in pediatric dentistry. Dr. Mehta is now board-certified, meaning she offers the highest-quality care to growing smiles in the Katy community. Through regular checkups and cleanings, she can help your child avoid oral health issues like cavities. If it’s time for your loved one’s next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call her office at (281) 849-3003.