After your Thanksgiving meal, there may be a few things you want to take back home with you (like your aunt’s famous pecan pie). However, you certainly don’t want to leave the table with noticeable dental discoloration that leaves your smile looking yellow and brittle heading into 2024! That’s why it’s important not to over-indulge in the below Thanksgiving foods that can stain your teeth.
#1. Cranberry Sauce
Whether canned or made fresh, cranberry sauce is a side that’s at nearly every Thanksgiving table. Unfortunately, the dark red color can leave your teeth looking more yellow than white, especially if you continue to indulge throughout the holiday season. That’s why it’s best to indulge in moderation and maintain a solid oral hygiene routine even during the hustle and bustle of this time of year.
#2. Blueberry Pie
Strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries are all loaded with vitamins that play an essential role in keeping you healthy. However, when added to a pie, there are two problems: there is loads of added sugar, and eating these pigmented fruits in excess can cause serious stains to surface. That’s why many patients do their best to fill their plates with lots of vegetables and lean proteins – it helps prevent them from accidentally over-indulging.
#3. Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Thanksgiving dinner, but it often makes its way onto your plate in the form of salad dressing or roasted vegetables. As with the other foods on this list, it can leave a mark on your teeth. Fortunately, you can keep a glass of water nearby so you can rinse away the residue from your teeth between bites, helping prevent discoloration in the process.
#4. Red Wine
Although red wine isn’t a food, it does deserve a place on this list since it’s a staple of many people’s Thanksgiving spreads. In fact, this festive beverage can do more than stain your teeth; it can also result in enamel erosion if you consume it in excess! So, for the sake of the look and health of your smile, it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day as well, including during dinner.
About the Doctor
Leading our top-rated Lakewood dental office is Dr. Tavi Henry, a highly-trained dentist with more than 400 hours of continuing education under his belt. Since he’s completed advanced training in everything from orthodontics to cosmetic restorations, he has the experience and passion necessary to give you a smile that’s gorgeous, healthy, and functional – even during the season of sugar. If you would like to schedule your next checkup or learn more about the dental services we offer, then don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment via our website or by phone at (303) 984-1400.