Foods That Can Help Keep Gum Disease At Bay

Posted on 7/20/2019 by Robert Henshaw, DMD

We've all heard the old adage, “An apple a day can keep the doctor away.” But did you know that certain foods can also help keep gum disease away?

Just like how a bad diet can worsen the condition of your teeth and gums, a healthy diet can promote a healthy smile. By integrating certain foods in your diet, you can help prevent gum disease even before it starts!

Foods to Enjoy for Healthy Gums

An apple won't just keep your doctor away – it might keep your dentist away, too! While we don't want to be strangers, we would love to discover that you have a healthy diet when you come in for a dental exam. Apples have a polishing effect on your teeth, and the vitamins and minerals in it can help prevent gum disease. Just make sure you rinse your mouth out after enjoying one, as the sugar can lead to plague buildup.

What other foods can help protect your gums from periodontitis?

•	Dairy products can also help prevent gum disease. Peptides in milk combat the enzymes in the bacteria found in plaque, leading to healthier teeth and gums. The calcium also leads to stronger teeth. The probiotics in yogurt are also good for your gums, since they fight the disease-causing bacteria in your mouth. Reach for plain, unsweetened dairy products to get the most benefits from this beneficial food.
•	Leafy Green Vegetables and Fresh Fruits: You could never go wrong with fresh fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C is extremely important for gum health, and you can find it in many fruits and veggies such as oranges, kiwi, and even bell peppers! Not only will you get a bounty of vitamins and minerals, eating raw, crunchy produce can help scrub away disease-causing bacteria from your teeth.
•	Tea: Yes, we know that tea isn't a food, per se, but its health benefits for your teeth cannot be overstated. Black tea has been recently demonstrated to promote oral health and fight off inflammation, infection, disease-causing bacteria. Green tea is also great for fighting off cavities, bad breath, and gum disease, giving you a healthier mouth overall.

Healthy gums start at home with a healthy diet and a good oral health care regimen, complete with brushing and flossing. Don't overlook the importance, however, of routine dental exams complete with a thorough cleaning. Please give our office a call today to schedule your comprehensive dental exam!

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