Did you know roughly half of all adults over age 30 have some form of gum disease? And even though it’s quite widespread, the condition can actually have some pretty serious consequences if not treated with gum disease (periodontal) therapy. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to mitigate gum disease and even prevent it entirely – including eating a healthy diet! Here are some foods notably capable of fighting gum disease and helping ensure your smile is in stellar condition.
Salmon and Oily Fish
Salmon and other oily fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These, along with other nutrients, help your body keep inflammation to a minimum which can either prevent gum disease from happening in the first place or fight an existing infection. They are also a good protein source essential for healing damaged gum tissue.
Grass-fed Beef and Chicken
They are particularly effective in promoting gum health, as these meats are rich in nutrients like vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids. Grass-fed meats are also low in unhealthy fats that contribute to gum disease.
Cacao
Cacao is excellent for teeth because it helps to combat plaque, tooth decay, and cavities. In fact, the compounds found in cacao are generally more effective against tooth decay than fluoride! That said, if you want a beneficial cacao diet without high sugar content, consider raw chocolate of up to 70 percent or more. You might also opt for lower-sugar varieties.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C which help keep gums moist and capable of self-repair. They also contain a range of antioxidants to help promote healing.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds that help fight bacteria and inflammation and support healthy microorganisms for a balanced oral microbiome. While more research is still needed to confirm the overall effectiveness of shiitake mushrooms for treating gum disease, there is promising evidence they may be a helpful addition to any gum care regimen.
Green Tea
It is made from the Camellia sinensis plant and has been consumed by humans for centuries. Green tea contains nutrients capable of reducing swelling and damage to gum tissue, in addition to promoting the growth of new gum tissue.
By making smart choices for your diet, you can actively prevent gum disease to protect your oral health and, in turn, your overall health. Be sure to ask your dentist in Orange Park for more tips on gum disease prevention at your next checkup.
About the Practice
At Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry, our goal is simple: Prioritize the patient experience above all else and work hard every day to provide comfortable appointments that exceed expectations. If you feel anxiety, we are experienced at easing patient concerns. For 40 years, we’ve been serving patients in Orange Park. If you are interested in periodontal therapy, our team performs thorough screenings at every appointment, plus we can perform scaling and root planing for in-depth cleaning. You can schedule an appointment on our website or call (904) 272-0800.