Thanksgiving is a time for family, good food, and reflecting on what we’re grateful for. But with all the mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, and sweet treats on the table, it’s easy to overlook the impact on your child’s teeth. The good news? A few simple steps can help protect their smile while still letting them enjoy the holiday feast.
Here’s how to keep those tiny teeth safe while still enjoying all the holiday goodness.
1. Start the Day with a Good Brush
Before the Thanksgiving chaos begins, set the tone for the day with some solid oral hygiene. Make sure your child brushes their teeth thoroughly (two minutes, twice a day!). Starting with a clean slate helps reduce plaque buildup before the feast even begins. Bonus points if you turn it into a fun morning ritual to get them excited about the day!
2. Watch Out for Sugary Sneak Attacks
Thanksgiving is a playground for sugar, from cranberry sauce to pies and candied yams. While it’s okay for your child to indulge a little, try to keep an eye on the sugary stuff. Encourage them to drink water between bites to wash away lingering sugars, and consider having them eat sweets closer to mealtime—when saliva production is higher—to help protect their teeth.
3. Make Veggies the Hero
The Thanksgiving table is brimming with tooth-friendly options like carrots, celery, and green beans. These crunchy veggies can act like natural toothbrushes, scrubbing away food particles and promoting saliva flow. Pro tip: Pair raw veggies with hummus or a light ranch dressing to make them more appealing to picky eaters.
4. Limit Sticky and Chewy Foods
Sticky foods like caramel or marshmallow-topped dishes love to cling to teeth, which makes them a cavity risk. If your child can’t resist these treats, have them rinse their mouth with water afterward and encourage a quick floss session before bed.
5. Stay Hydrated
Water is your child’s best friend during Thanksgiving. It helps rinse away food particles, keeps their mouth hydrated, and can even neutralize acids that attack enamel. Offer water throughout the meal instead of sugary drinks like soda or juice. Bonus: It’s calorie-free, so it won’t fill them up before the turkey!
6. End the Day with a Floss-Off
Once the plates are cleared and the leftovers are packed, make sure your child finishes the day with a good floss and brush. Thanksgiving meals tend to be heavy on the carbs (hello, stuffing and rolls!), which can easily get stuck between teeth. Flossing is the only way to reach those hidden spots and keep their smile sparkling.
A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way
Thanksgiving is about enjoying good food and great company—not stressing over your child’s teeth. By keeping these tips in mind, you can let them dig into their favorite dishes guilt-free while still protecting their pearly whites.
At Huntington Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to support your family’s oral health every step of the way. Got questions about post-Thanksgiving dental care or want to schedule a check-up? Give us a call—we’re always happy to help!
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Huntington Smiles!
