Gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions that there is, with some estimates saying that around 50% of adults in the U.S. have it to some extent. Gum disease can be fairly mild, resulting in some minor inflammation, or can be severe enough to cause tooth and bone loss.
As a result, if you’re one of the many Americans who is suffering from some form of gum disease, it’s critical that you take steps to manage it properly. Dental hygiene is a massive part of that, but there are also some changes you can make to your diet that can be helpful. Here are some foods it might be a good idea to incorporate.
1. Salmon or Oily Fish
One of the primary symptoms of gum disease, and one of the most important to manage, is inflammation. Salmon and other oily fish contain a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to have anti-inflammatory effects. They also contain a lot of vitamin A and vitamin D, which strengthen the gums and teeth.
2. Sweet Potato
In a similar vein, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which help support the development of healthy gums and protect against oral infection. They also contain a range of antioxidants, which certain studies suggest have anti-inflammatory effects.
Just be careful about your sugar intake; if you don’t take caution, you could potentially start to see plaque buildup, which can worsen the effects of gum disease.
3. Green Tea
Green tea has been a part of people’s diets for centuries, and in recent years it’s been celebrated as a powerful health food. Green tea contains catechins and flavonoids, which certain studies believe have antioxidant effects that can reduce inflammation.
However, it’s worth noting that green tea can potentially discolor your teeth if you aren’t careful, so be sure to brush your teeth often to keep your teeth white—and gum disease at bay!
About Our Practice
At Exceptional Dentistry & Sedation Center, we’re sometimes referred to as the Ritz Carlton of Dentistry, because we not only provide our patients with remarkable dental care, but also ensure that each of them is kept completely comfortable for the duration of their stay with us. We also have expert sedation dentists on staff, meaning that we have the tools necessary to put even the most anxious patients at ease.
If you have any questions about how to prevent gum disease, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (352) 332-6725.
