Thanksgiving season has arrived in Metro Detroit, and that means two things: delicious food and gratitude. Here at Devoted Dental, we’re especially grateful for our amazing patients, our dedicated staff, the incredible communities we serve across southeast Michigan.
Before you dig into your holiday favorites, here’s something to keep in mind: the sugary desserts, carb-heavy sides, and acidic drinks can take a toll on your teeth. Whether you’re searching for dental tips, an emergency dentist in Metro Detroit, or ways to protect your smile this holiday season, here’s a complete Thanksgiving dental guide to help you make informed decisions at the dinner table.
👍 The Best Thanksgiving Foods For Your Teeth
Turkey 🦃
A Thanksgiving classic and one of the best options for your smile. Turkey is rich in protein, low in sugar, and great for oral health. Just make sure you floss after eating—those tiny fibers are notorious for getting stuck between teeth.
Fresh Vegetables 🥗
Carrots, green beans, Brussels sprouts, and other crunchy vegetables help stimulate saliva, which naturally protects enamel and rinses away food particles.
Cheese Trays 🧀
Cheese balances mouth acidity and strengthens enamel, making it a smart appetizer choice at any holiday gathering.
⚠️ Thanksgiving Foods To Enjoy In Moderation
Cranberry Sauce 🫙
Sticky + acidic = tough on enamel. Rinse with water after eating.
Pumpkin Pie & Desserts 🥧
Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, cookies, and other holiday sweets are loaded with sugar. If you indulge, try to keep dessert to one sitting instead of nibbling throughout the day.
Stuffing & Rolls 🍞
Carbs break down into sugar, feeding cavity-causing bacteria. Drink water along with these foods to help wash away debris.
Sweet Potato Casserole 🍠
Sticky foods cling to teeth longer and increase cavity risk, especially when they get trapped in hard-to-reach areas.
🥤Holiday Drinks & Their Impact On Your Teeth
Metro Detroit favorites like apple cider, wine, coffee, and pop can all affect oral health. Red wine stains, white wine is acidic, cider is sugary, and pop—yes, even Faygo—is both acidic and high in sugar. To protect your enamel, alternate sips of these beverages with water throughout the day.
5 Dentist-Approved Tips for A Healthy Holiday
1. Wait 30 Minutes Before Brushing 🪥
After eating acidic foods, enamel softens temporarily. Waiting 30 minutes protects your teeth from erosion.
2. Drink Plenty of Water 💧
Water helps rinse away food particles, neutralize acids, and maintain a healthy pH balance in the mouth. Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to support long-term oral health.
3. Keep Travel-Sized Dental Essentials Nearby 🧳
If you’re visiting family across southeast Michigan, pack floss picks, toothpaste, and sugar-free gum. These small habits can make a big difference.
4. Avoid All-Day Grazing 🦷
Frequent snacking increases bacteria activity. Try to keep food to set mealtimes when possible.
5. Schedule Your Post-Holiday Dental Cleaning ✅
Thanksgiving marks the start of Michigan’s sugar-heavy holiday season. A professional cleaning helps remove buildup and keeps your smile bright.
❤️ What We’re Thankful For
Every year, we reflect on how grateful we are for our patients and the communities we serve throughout Metro Detroit. Whether you visit us for routine care, cosmetic dentistry, emergency treatment, or anything in between, we are honored to be part of your oral health journey.
✨ Keep Your Smile Healthy All Season Long
If you’re searching for a dentist near you in Metro Detroit, Devoted Dental is here to help.
Book your appointment today and keep your smile healthy all season long!