The adage “you are what you eat” rings particularly true regarding your dental health. Your teeth and gums come into direct contact with the foods you choose to eat and drink. That means your decisions can either support or detract from your oral health. For instance, anything too hard could chip or crack your enamel, and overly sugary snacks attract bacteria that contribute to common issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
If you’re worried that your diet has wreaked havoc on your gums, continue reading to learn about 3 things you can eat that will support and preserve your smile instead!
Food #1: Green Tea
Gum disease happens when bacteria in your mouth penetrate your connective tissues, causing an infection that only grows worse the longer it goes unaddressed. However, did you know that drinking tea can potentially prevent it? Most teas contain polyphenols, which are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. That means they can reduce the presence of unwanted germs in your mouth.
Green tea also contains high levels of catechins, an essential nutrient for fighting gum disease. They kill bacteria that cause cavities and gingivitis and inhibit these microbes from forming biofilms that cling to your teeth.
Food #2: Fresh Fruits & Veggies
Eating a wide variety of wholesome ingredients provides your body with essential nutrients, like vitamin C, needed to protect your grin. This compound is a key component of collagen, the protein responsible for the strength and elasticity of your connective tissues. Without enough of it, you can develop weak or bleeding gums or scurvy.
Fortunately, increasing your levels is easy! You can indulge in more citrus fruits like oranges, which are known for high levels of this ingredient. It’s also found in many leafy greens like spinach, kale, and broccoli.
Food #3: Water
You might think this doesn’t deserve to make the list, but water actually protects your dental health in several ways. It has a neutral pH balance and can counteract potential acid damage from your meals that might otherwise damage your enamel. It also rinses away unwanted particles and debris to keep your mouth fresh and clean. This prevents plaque from building along your gumlines, reducing the likelihood of developing a periodontal problem. Furthermore, staying hydrated boosts your bodily functions so your immunity functions at its peak to fight off possible infections like gingivitis.
Paying attention to your eating habits can help you build and maintain a happy, healthy smile!
About the Practice
At My Frederick Dentist, you and your family benefit from two dedicated dentists with 15+ years of combined experience. Dr. Aziz and Dr. Hong enjoy getting to know patients so they can customize services to meet your unique needs. They provide a full array of services from one convenient location. Then, they utilize state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort and deliver accurate results. If you’re worried about gum disease, you can request an appointment on the website or call (301) 698-9552.