Thanksgiving is that time of year when we gather around the table with friends and family to celebrate the things we are truly grateful for. The traditional spread is well-known: turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and the like have pleased Americans for generations. However, dentists everywhere can sometimes be a little worried about the desserts offered at this annual feast. Here are a few teeth-friendly dessert options that will have you and your guests wanting seconds.
Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a low-sugar and low-calorie dessert. While you can find pre-made stuff at the store, you can have more fun by making this dish at home. To make things even better if you yourself, you can have personal control over how much sugar goes into the recipe. You might even try replacing some of the sugar with alternative sweeteners such as cinnamon. If you get a little creative with all the spices out there, you can have a dessert tailor-made to the flavors of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Apple Crisp
In some circles, apple crisp is considered the pinnacle of holiday comfort food. Luckily for everyone out there who is looking for a teeth-friendly Thanksgiving dessert, apple crisp contains a few ingredients that are good for your teeth. Dentists call apples “nature’s toothbrush” because its fibrous, soft texture can help clean plaque and food debris from the teeth as you chew. Considering that apple crisp is often topped with walnuts that are rich in calcium, it can be a treat for both your teeth and your palate.
Dark Chocolate
Chocolate is the most popular candy on Earth, and it thankfully isn’t that bad for your smile! Chocolate is not hard, sticky, or acidic, and it can be easily cleaned away from the teeth. Dark chocolate is the healthiest kind of chocolate around because it is low in sugar and rich in antioxidants. You can use it to create knockout desserts like chocolate-covered nuts, berries, and bananas. That will give your guests a sweet treat that will keep their teeth healthy and strong.
Your sweet tooth can be hard to appease when the Holidays come around, but these recipes can provide your tastebuds with the rich flavors they want without being too harsh on your teeth. Enjoy your feast this year, but remember to mind your dental health when it comes to your dessert choices.
About the Author
Dr. Kamlesh Makwana earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Marquette University in 1996 before completing a General Practice Residency and Fellowship at the Barnes-Jewish Hospital/Washington University. A warm soul and a natural listener, he looks forward to providing his patients with stellar service and positive results every day. His office in St. Peters, MO offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry. To schedule a post-Thanksgiving dental cleaning, contact his office online or dial (636) 928-9693.
