Did you know that gum disease is one of the most common conditions among adults in the United States? Many cases are due to inadequate oral hygiene or genetics. However, many other factors, including what you eat on a daily basis, can play a role in determining how healthy your gums are. Since February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, it is the perfect time to make adjustments to your diet that can benefit your periodontal (gum) health. Here are some gum-friendly foods that can do wonders for your smile’s well-being.
Crunchy Foods
No, we’re not talking about potato chips and crispy cookies. The crunchy foods that are good for your gums include things like raw apples, celery, carrots, and leafy greens. Not only do they contain vitamins and minerals that promote overall wellness, but the effort it takes to chew them is also good for you. Munching on these foods promotes saliva production, which in turn helps to rinse away bacteria from your gums. The rough texture of some types of raw produce also helps to scrape away plaque that might be clinging to your teeth near the gum line.
Foods Rich in Vitamin C
Gum disease is essentially gum inflammation, and vitamin C is a natural anti-inflammatory; it can therefore help to keep your smile healthy. Tons of foods are excellent sources of vitamin C. However, you should be cautious when you’re choosing how to consume this vitamin. For example, you should eat acidic foods like oranges and fruit juice in moderation since they can erode your tooth enamel. Vitamin C-rich foods with lower acidity levels include leafy greens, potatoes, and bell peppers.
Foods with Catechins
Catechins are a specific type of plant-based chemical that have been shown to fight toxins. Green tea is one of the best sources of catechins, and studies have shown an inverse relationship between green tea consumption and periodontal disease. If green tea isn’t to your taste, you can also benefit from black tea. Other foods that contain catechins include cacao (choose chocolate that is at least 70 percent cacao), fava beans, apples, cherries, blackberries, and red wine.
Antimicrobial Foods
Raw onion is a fantastic antimicrobial food that can neutralize oral bacteria and promote healthier gums. Try adding it to your lunchtime salad every day to reap its benefits. Other foods with antimicrobial properties that may fight gum disease include turmeric and garlic.
Dairy Products
Many dairy products contain a protein called casein, which helps to neutralize acids in the mouth that can irritate the gum tissue. Be sure to choose low- or no-sugar dairy products, like plain yogurt, milk, and cheese, rather than treats like flavored yogurt or ice cream.
Are you doing all you can to fight gum disease? Try incorporating the above foods into your diet to achieve a healthier mouth and a healthier body.
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Griffith is an experienced general, cosmetic, and restorative dentist who is proud to offer both non-surgical periodontal therapy and soft tissue laser treatments. If it is time for your next periodontal checkup, or you have questions about how to maintain a healthy mouth, contact Dr. Griffith’s team at 606-874-9311.