Did you know that there are about 65 million Americans over the age of 30 who are affected by gum disease? That’s according to the American Academy of Periodontology, who also notes that recently there have been several research studies suggesting periodontal disease is connected to other disease in our bodies such as:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
It’s believed that inflammation caused by gum disease is what links them together.
With all that being said, your Woodlands dentist wants to work with you to ensure your gums are healthy so your teeth and the rest of your body can stay healthy too. Let’s talk about some of the foods and other items you can add to your diet to protect and preserve the health of your gums.
Stick to A Proper Diet for Peak Performance
When you eat healthy and maintain a proper diet, you’ll find that you feel so much better on a daily basis. As dentists in The Woodlands, we know that by eating right, you’re also supporting your immune system and ensuring it stays strong. Even if you brush twice every single day and are super good about flossing, if you’re not eating the right foods, you can still get gum disease. Think of what you’re putting into your body as medicine or fuel to help your body operate at peak performance.
Here are some foods and supplements you might want to to consider:
Vitamin C – Scientists and doctors suggest that low vitamin C levels have been noted in patients with gum disease. The powerful vitamin does a great job at fighting disease-causing bacteria and that low vitamin C levels have been noted in patients with gum disease. The powerful vitamin does a great job at fighting disease-causing bacteria and can help boost your gum regeneration levels.
Omega-3s – Known for their effective anti-inflammatory properties, Omega-3s also support a healthy immune system just like vitamin C. Make time to eat these foods that are rich with Omega-3s, and your gums will thank you:
– Spinach
– Eggs
– Salmon
– Sardines
– Walnuts
– Tofu
– Soybeans
– Brussels sprouts
Beta Carotene – Beta carotene can help unhealthy gums heal faster. This awesome provitamin that your body will break down and eventually turn into helpful vitamin A that can significantly reduce inflammation too. Its most commonly found in fruits and vegetables such as
– Carrots
– Sweet potatoes
– Spinach
– Kale
– Cantaloupe
– Apricots
These foods are important for your body and your gums because they’re known for their anti-inflammatory characteristics and benefits. Inflammation is usually the result of a bacterial infection, but there are many factors including genetics, smoking, lack of at-home dental care, diet, age, medications, and underlying health problems that can contribute to or worsen the signs and symptoms.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about how you can help combat gum disease and avoid it in the future by eating certain foods rich with strong vitamins. If you have questions for any of our Woodlands dental offices, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re happy to answer your questions about gum disease or any other dental dilemmas.
Dr. Leslie Blackburn (Pediatric Dentistry) – Growing Great Grins
Dr. Robert Dernick (General, Cosmetic, Implant Dentistry), and TMJ – Robert G. Dernick, DDS
Dr. David Epstein (General, Cosmetic Dentistry & Sleep Apnea) – Epstein & Vakil General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Mike Freeman (General, Cosmetic, Implant, Sleep Apnea, and TMJ) – Dr. Mike Freeman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
Dr. Alisa Reed (General, Cosmetic, Implant, Laser, Sleep Apnea, and TMJ) – Dental Designs by Alisa Reed
Dr. Wade Williams (Orthodontics) – Wade Williams, DDS, MS
Dr. Nikita Vakil ( General, Cosmetic, Implant Dentistry) – Epstein & Vakil General & Cosmetic Dentistry