{"id":630,"date":"2023-11-11T01:27:00","date_gmt":"2023-11-11T01:27:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.treehousepediatricdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=630"},"modified":"2023-12-11T01:29:40","modified_gmt":"2023-12-11T01:29:40","slug":"tooth-friendly-foods-for-the-holidays","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.treehousepediatricdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=630","title":{"rendered":"Dentist-Approved Meals to Enjoy the Holidays"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"CandyThe holidays are here, which means plenty of gatherings, potlucks, and goodies! Your little one will be surrounded by many sugary treats that will tempt their taste buds. Not to mention, many seasonal favorites can harm your child\u2019s dental health. The holidays don\u2019t have to come back to haunt your child\u2019s smile. Here are a few tips to keep your holiday meals tooth-friendly.<\/p>\n

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Turkey<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether roasted, fried, or smoked, turkey is a favorite on many holiday tables. Turkey is packed with protein, calcium, and vitamin D, which support healthy teeth and gums. However, limit cranberry sauce. It can stain teeth and contains sugar, which feeds cavity-causing bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stuffing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Stuffing is a favorite holiday staple, but it contains starches. Starches increase harmful oral bacteria growth that can lead to tooth decay. It\u2019s best to offer plenty of fresh vegetables as an alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Candy Canes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Candy canes are a tasty minty treat that can be found in homes throughout the country. Unfortunately, they are bad news for your child\u2019s smile. Your little one must hold the candy in their mouth for it to dissolve, which bathes their teeth in sugary residue. Crunching it isn\u2019t any better because it can break a tooth. The last place you want to spend the holidays is at an emergency dentist. If your little one needs a sweet treat, encourage a piece of chocolate. It rinses easier from their teeth, so it won\u2019t linger in their mouth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eggnog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Eggnog is a great treat during long winter nights. However, it contains plenty of sugar that can contribute to tooth decay. Limit your child\u2019s consumption of sugary drinks. Instead, have them drink plenty of water to keep their mouth moist and their body hydrated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Promote Healthy Holiday Smiles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Besides watching what your family eats, you can keep their smiles healthy through the holidays with a few tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n