Many people have gum disease but don’t know it. You need regular dental checkups to identify the disease early and avoid its damaging effects. Gum disease in the early stages is called gingivitis, and periodontitis includes more severe conditions. All gum disease is caused by the overgrowth of bacteria and the buildup of plaque and tartar.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene and a healthy diet can prevent gum disease and help you recover from periodontitis. Eating the following foods can also assist with fighting off gum disease.
Omega-3
Omega-3s are essential in a nutrient-rich and balanced diet. They contain anti-inflammatory properties that soothe your painful gums. In addition to standing out as great nutrient sources, Omega-3s also helps heal the damage from gum diseases. Fatty fishes contain oils rich in Omega 3s and nutrients and their anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 enriched foods include:
- Macadamia nuts
- Pistachios
- Sesame seeds
Probiotics
Our mouths contain both harmful bacteria and the kind that can reduce plaque accumulation and gingivitis. Probiotics are renowned for contributing to these good bacteria, and fermented dairy helps your body defend against gum disease. Excellent sources of probiotics are:
Green Tea
Green tea is famous for its high levels of catechin, one of the top nutrients that fight gum diseases. In addition, scientists have discovered green tea can inhibit the effects of periodontal diseases. Green tea also has antibacterial properties that reduce plaque buildup and weaken bacteria.
Co-Enzyme Q10
This enzyme is also referred to as Ubiquinol and occurs in most human cells as a fat-soluble vitamin. Co-enzyme Q1O is famous for its intercellular antioxidant abilities. It helps suppress gingival and advanced periodontal inflammation. Excellent sources of Co-enzyme Q10 include:
- Organ meats such as heart, liver, and kidney
- Muscle meats from chicken, pork, and beef
- Fatty fishes such as sardine, trout, mackerel, and herring
Vitamin C
Vitamin C reduces gingival bleeding in people suffering from gingivitis. It also strengthens gums and the soft tissues in the mouth by facilitating the production of collagen. Collagen is an essential protein that forms part of the gums. You don’t have to worry about your teeth loosening when you take in enough vitamin C. You can get vitamin C by consuming:
- Citrus fruits like oranges
- Strawberries
- Peppers
- Blackcurrant
- Potatoes
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
Red and green peppers are rich in this essential nutrient. A cup full of red peppers contains over 300% of Vitamin C required for daily intake, and green peppers have over 200%. When you combine both peppers in your diet, you will enjoy plenty of Vitamin C to fight your gum disease.
Visit Your Dental Professional Regularly
Seeing your dental specialist at least twice a year can help catch gum disease early and prevent it from progressing. Add to that eating the right foods, and you can encourage your gums to heal and keep your smile and body healthy.
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Foods to Eat if You Have Gum Disease first appeared on
Dental Signal.