Festive parties, delectable desserts, and sweet and spirited cheer, the holiday season brings with it a crush of all things sugar and spice — and everything that’s not nice for your teeth.

But do not be dismayed: Not everything that’s delicious is on the naughty list for your smile. These favorite holiday foods taste good — and they’re good for your oral health, too!

1. Head for the Charcuterie Board

Charcuterie boards are often power players at holiday parties — and they can have a wealth of wonderful options for your teeth. First up? Go for all the cheese; it contains calcium, which is good for strengthening your tooth enamel. Cheese is also rich in phosphorus, which is another healthy mineral for your bones and teeth. Some cheeses — like Gouda, Brie, and Parmesan — also have a good amount of vitamin K2, which can support dental health, as well.

But that’s not all: Cheese also helps stimulate saliva production, which can help neutralize acid and balance the pH levels in your mouth thereby reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

If there are fresh veggies and fruit along with nuts on that charcuterie board, too, grab plenty of those — read on and you’ll see why.

2. Load up on Fresh Veggies

Whether you find your veggies on a charcuterie board — or just as a snack any time — they’re a great option for dental health. Crunchy options like raw carrots, broccoli, and celery not only are healthy for your whole body (and therefore your teeth!), with a range of vitamins and minerals, but they also act as a natural toothbrush and help scrub the surface of your teeth. 

Dip them in a healthy Greek yogurt-based dip for added benefits from the calcium in the dairy!

3. Take Advantage of Fresh Appies 

While all fruit has health benefits in the form of vitamins and minerals, an apple a day is especially good for your oral health. Consider finishing a meal with a few crisp apple slices — instead of a sugar-laden dessert — to help scrub away any debris from your teeth.

A common addition to a charcuterie spread along with being a popular party snack, mixed nuts generally make a delicious appearance around the holidays. And, a handful of nuts can boost your oral health! 

4. Go Nuts for Nuts! 

Packed with calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, they can contribute to the remineralization of tooth enamel, making your teeth more resistant to decay and cavities. (Just make sure you’re not picking up the candied nuts, which are loaded with sticky sugar!)

5. Enjoy this Egg-cellent Option

From brunch-time frittata to party-ready deviled eggs and more, eggs are a solid source of vitamin D, which helps your body absorb and transport calcium into the bones that support your teeth.

6. Say Yes to Salmon

Salmon may be on the menu at your next holiday gathering — whether it’s smoked salmon as an appetizer, lox and cream cheese with bagels, or an incredible baked or grilled salmon dish. Not only does salmon have healthy omega-3 fatty acids, it’s also rich in phosphorus and vitamin D, too. All these nutrients work to improve whole-body health in addition to strengthening your teeth and gums.

7.Don’t Skip Dessert

While you may think you have to skip dessert if you want to stay on the nice list for your teeth, you don’t! There are some better-for-your-teeth dessert options out there, including those squares of pure dark chocolate that might be sitting around in a candy bowl.

Dark chocolate is less sugary than its milk chocolate counterparts. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which can help lower inflammation in the body — including your gums! This helps your overall oral health. Also, if you’re going to choose a pie, make it pumpkin.

Remember: You can still savor all your favorite holiday foods in moderation — even if they didn’t make it on the nice list. Just remember to double down on your oral care routine and be diligent about brushing and flossing (preferably soon after you consume a sugary treat!).

Also, if you don’t have your to bi-annual teeth cleaning and exam scheduled, take this as your cue and call SMILE! Advanced Dental Care in Summerville, SC, today at 843-873-1261.

Happy holidays!