Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food! But while the holiday table is full of comforting favorites, not every dish is friendly to your child’s smile. At Storybook Dental, Dr. Ronald Hsu and Dr. Elysia Sybert want to help families enjoy every bite while keeping teeth strong and cavity-free.

Sneaky Smile Villains on the Thanksgiving Table

Sticky Sweets (like pecan pie and caramel sauce)

These gooey treats cling to teeth, giving cavity-causing bacteria plenty of time to feast. If your child enjoys a sweet bite, make sure they rinse with water or brush soon after.

Starchy Favorites (like mashed potatoes and stuffing)

Starches quickly break down into sugars in the mouth, fueling bacteria that lead to plaque buildup. Try pairing these dishes with veggies or proteins to balance the effects.

Cranberry Sauce

While festive, many cranberry sauces are high in sugar and acidity — a double trouble combination that can weaken enamel. Serve it in moderation or make a low-sugar version at home.

Soda and Sweet Drinks

Sparkling juices and sodas may seem harmless during celebrations, but their acidity and sugar content can damage enamel. Encourage water between sips to help neutralize acids.

Tooth-Friendly Heroes to Enjoy Guilt-Free

Turkey

A protein-packed classic that helps strengthen enamel and stimulate saliva production, which naturally cleans teeth.

Cheese and Veggies

Cheese helps neutralize mouth acids, and crunchy veggies like carrots and celery gently scrub away food particles.

Pumpkin (without extra sugar!)

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, which help keep gums healthy — just watch out for extra sugar in pies or desserts.

Water and Milk

Both help wash away food debris and keep enamel strong, making them the perfect beverages for any Thanksgiving feast.

A Thankful Smile Is a Healthy Smile

Thanksgiving is all about balance — enjoying seasonal favorites while caring for your family’s smiles. Encourage your little ones to brush and floss after the big meal and schedule a post-holiday checkup to keep their teeth happy heading into winter.

? Call (360) 216-1130

? contact@storybookdental.com

Storybook Dental

2115 SE 192nd Ave, Suite 106

Camas, WA 98607

Because every meal — and every smile — deserves a happy ending.