The holidays bring family and friends together and often, gatherings are filled with sweet treats of the season. This holiday, offer healthier options that are tasty as well as healthier for your teeth.

Chocolate covered strawberries with pistachios
Strawberries are available year-round and are a tooth-friendly treat when you choose dark chocolate. It’s lower in sugar than milk or white chocolate and offsets the sweetness of the strawberry. Pistachios are high in antioxidants and can help improve blood vessel health in the gum tissue. Easy-to-make, these dark chocolate-covered strawberries with pistachios will leave your guests smiling.

Cinnamon spiced pumpkin muffins and breads
A well-known spice, cinnamon has been shown to be beneficial to your oral health by helping to prevent inflammation and fight bacteria. Pumpkin contains Vitamin A which promotes the production of saliva and improves symptoms of dry mouth. Its magnesium content can help prevent the development of gum disease. Bake this aromatic spiced pumpkin bread and make your mouth happy.

Dark chocolate peppermint bark
Dark chocolate is better for your teeth than milk chocolate because it melts quickly and is less likely to stick to your teeth than other sugary treats. Cacao beans contain theobromine which has been shown to be protective of tooth enamel.

Try this tooth-healthy dark chocolate peppermint bark. The peppermint can help fight the growth of bacteria in your mouth and leaves your mouth feeling fresh.

Red velvet beet cupcakes
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of beets can help prevent tooth decay. Eating whole beets will give you the best health benefit, some of their nutrients are found in baking these red velvet beet cupcakes.

Turmeric ginger cookies
Both turmeric and ginger have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help protect your mouth and gums from disease. Finding ways to add these spices into your daily diet would be beneficial. These turmeric ginger cookies contain both along with cinnamon, another tooth-healthy ingredient.

Keep in mind that while these baked goodies have healthful ingredients, other ingredients like sugar, can be harmful to your teeth and gums. Eat treats in moderation and remember to keep up with your oral hygiene of brushing twice and flossing daily throughout the holidays.