CarolinasDentist Blog

Holiday Foods That Are Dentist-Approved

Aerial view of a white plate on a yellow table next to silverware

Holidays mean parties, family time, shopping, presents, and lots of tempting treats. To protect your teeth and gums, enjoy sugary goodies and treats in moderation! There are also many festive holiday foods that are good for your oral health.

  1. Apples

    2. The fall is prime apple season (and some areas even offer apple picking), though you can still get yummy apples all year long. Apples are deliciously juicy and crunchy! They contain vitamin C, which helps keep your gums and connective tissue strong so that your teeth stay firmly anchored in your mouth. They’ll even do a little work for you while you eat; this fibrous fruit cleans some of the plaque and food particles from the teeth while you chew. However, eating an apple is not a substitute for daily brushing. If you have braces, cut your apple into bite-size pieces to ensure safe snacking.

  2. Pumpkin

    3. Pumpkin is another fall staple that makes an appearance in nearly anything, from beverages to baked goods to savory dishes. Both fresh and canned pumpkin contain potassium, vitamin C, vitamin A, and more, which are good for your dental health and your overall health.

  3. Berries

    4. Berries contain polyphenols, which are compounds that reduce your risk of disease due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial power. They are delicious eaten plain, in baked goods; as a topper for cereal, yogurt, crepes, pancakes, and waffles; or as a garnish for a salad or baked pork loin.

Do You Have Your Next Visit Scheduled?

The end of the year is always a good time to evaluate your oral health habits and to schedule your next routine dental cleaning. We want to see you every six months here at CarolinasDentist! Contact your nearest location to put an appointment on the books. Our team would be delighted to help you have a healthy smile!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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