Studies have shown again and again that diet can have a huge effect on oral health and gum disease. If you or your children aren't eating right, you're at a far greater risk of developing periodontal disease, gingivitis and halitosis, just to name a few.
To help you keep your gums and mouth healthy, let's take a closer look at the role of diet in causing and preventing gum disease.
The role of a good diet in preventing gum disease
To prevent disease and keep your mouth healthy you need to consume a number of vitamins and minerals. According to Ask the Dentist some of the most essential vitamins in foods include:
- Co-enzyme Q 10: Chicken.
- Collagens: Grass fed beef, chicken and bone broths.
- Catechins: Green tea and cacao.
- Beta Carotene: Sweet potatoes.
- Vitamin-C: Broccoli, oranges, red bell peppers and other fruits and vegetables.
- Omega-3s: Nuts like pistachios and macadamias as well as oily fish like salmon.
The vitamins and minerals in the above foods are great for fighting plaque, tooth decay and gum disease. They do so thanks to a variety of anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and immune system strengthening properties. Working these into your everyday diet is a smart way to reduce you and your family's risk of developing gum diseases.
However, diet isn't everything when it comes to keeping your gums healthy. You should also seek professional dental care at least once a year and practice good dental hygiene. That means brushing twice a day using a soft bristled brush and a toothpaste with fluoride, as well as flossing after meals (Keep in mind that using the same toothbrush for more than three months at a time can also increase your risk of gum disease).
How poor diet can exacerbate gum disease
Gum disease can be very uncomfortable and may require a visit to the dentist to fix, so it's best to avoid it if possible. To do so, it's a good idea to cut out or limit sugar and refined carbohydrates from your diet. Some of the worst offenders include:
- Sticky candies or sweets: If you're going to eat sweet things, steer clear of the ones that get stuck in between your teeth when eating. These are far more likely to cause trouble with your teeth and gums.
- Refined carbs that stick between your teeth: The same goes for refined carbohydrates. Avoid things like potato chips and soft breads that tend to lodge between your teeth.
- Carbonated soft drinks and juices: Most soft drinks contain added citric acid and other corrosive ingredients which damage your teeth and gums. Plus most juices and soft drinks contain huge amounts of sugar which can help gum disease-causing bacteria to thrive.
- Stuff that dries out your mouth: Like alcohol and certain medicines.
If you eat a balanced, low sugar diet and take care of your mouth, your chances of contracting a gum disease are very low, so it's worth the time and effort. On the other hand, if you suspect your gums are worse for wear, or you haven't had a check-up in a while, book an appointment online at City Dentists soon and let us take care of you.