The Truth About Cranberries: Are They Good or Bad for Your Holiday Smile?

In preparation for Thanksgiving, you may be looking for ways to make this year’s holiday spread healthier and more smile-friendly. With plenty of protein, fresh fruits, and vegetables, you feel pretty good about what you’ll be serving. But what about cranberries? Many families cannot begin to dig in without this delectable dish; however, you may wonder, “Are these tasty, red treats good or bad for your oral health?” Read on to learn their many benefits and drawbacks so that you can make the right decision for your holiday table.

What Makes Cranberries a Good Option for Better Oral Health?

While many individuals choose to serve the traditional canned cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving, there is nothing quite like making it from scratch. These delicious berries are not only a joy to eat, but they contain valuable nutrients that positively impact your oral and overall health.

Some of the reasons you should make sure to include them as part of your festive table spread include:

• They Minimize Your Risk of Gum Disease – Even a small handful of cranberries can be enough to prevent harmful bacteria from attacking your teeth and gums. They can also neutralize acids.
• They Lower the Chances of Cavities – High in antioxidants, cranberries help control bacteria inside your mouth that might otherwise cause cavities to form. They are also effective in reducing enamel damage and minimizing decay.
• They Prevent Bacterial Growth – Inside these tasty berries is a powerful nutrient that is designed to keep bad bacteria from coming together and wreaking havoc on your teeth and gums.
• They Reduce the Chances of Plaque Formation – If you would rather drink a cup of cranberry juice as opposed to eating it this Thanksgiving, you can lower the risk of plaque formation. Cranberries can help lower sugars so that cavities are less likely to develop.

Can Eating Too Many Cranberries Cause Problems?

The most prominent problem with cranberries is the discoloration that can happen to your teeth. Their deep red color can leave stains on your tooth enamel, which may not look as nice when it comes time for family photos.

Also, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients if you plan to drink cranberry juice or eat it as a sauce, as many of these products contain sugar, which will only fuel cavity-causing bacteria.

If you choose to incorporate cranberries as part of your Thanksgiving meal, just be sure to practice good oral hygiene following your meal. Giving your teeth and gums a proper cleaning will ensure they remain healthy, vibrant, and free of stains – a great combination to carry you through the holidays.

About the Author
Dr. Alex Naini is passionate about dentistry and is a well-known, talented, and reputable dentist in Vienna. Her caring demeanor allows her to work closely with patients who want to take better care of their smile year-round. During the holidays, she and her team offer helpful tips and solutions when it comes to eating the right foods and practicing good oral hygiene to keep smiles looking beautiful. If you have questions about your Thanksgiving spread and would like our insight, contact us at (703) 827-8282.