Gum disease is easily preventable by brushing your teeth twice and flossing at least once a day. However, it is still incredibly common. Approximately half of adults over the age of 30 are suffering from gum disease at one stage or another. In addition to proper oral hygiene, it is important that you are getting all of the essential vitamins and minerals that you need for optimal gum health. Continue reading to find out which ones you should incorporate into your diet.
Vitamin C
This is an essential vitamin that is needed for healthy soft tissues in the mouth, and it is effective at preventing against gingivitis, which is the earlier stage of gum disease. Vitamin C deficiencies don’t cause gum disease, but people who have periodontal disease tend to have lower vitamin C intake which can cause the condition to worsen. You can find vitamin C in citrus fruits, potatoes, strawberries, and leafy greens.
Calcium
You were always told that you need to drink plenty of milk to grow up with strong bones. This is because milk is a beverage that is high in calcium. It is essential for building bones and providing structural support. It also helps to strengthen both your enamel and jawbone. If you aren’t getting enough of a nutrient, you are at much higher risk for periodontal disease. In addition to milk, you can get calcium from cheese, yogurt, salmon, and broccoli.
Vitamin A
In order to have healthy mucus membranes, vitamin A is a good thing to have. It helps your mouth to heal faster. It also prevents dry mouth which puts your gums at risk for developing periodontal disease. You can find this in carrots, spinach, kale, pumpkin, fish, egg yolks, and liver.
Phosphorus
This mineral supports calcium to build strong bones and teeth. It can be found in seafoods, like scallops, cod, tuna, sardines, and shrimp. You can also find it in plant-based foods, including soybeans, pumpkin seeds, and lentils.
Vitamin D
If you didn’t have any vitamin D, you would be suffering from a severe calcium deficiency. This is because this vitamin helps your body to absorb calcium. The best way for you to get enough vitamin D is spending time in the sun. It is also found in portobello mushrooms, egg yolks, fortified milk, canned tuna, and fatty fish.
Potassium
Potassium improves bone mineral density. It also works alongside magnesium to ensure that your blood isn’t too acidic, which can be harmful for your teeth. Without this nutrient, you could be much more likely to develop tooth decay and gum disease because blood that is too acidic leaches calcium from bones and teeth. You can find this mineral in bananas, lima beans, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, avocados, and prunes.
To keep your teeth and gums healthy, you need to have all of the nutrients that your smile needs. Be sure that you are incorporating plenty of the ones listed above in your diet. Your smile will thank you!
About the Author
Dr. Paul Miller earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the VCU School of Dentistry. He offers family and cosmetic dentistry, as well as root canals, surgical extractions, and pediatric care. To learn more about keeping your smile healthy or to schedule an appointment at his office in Altavista, visit his website or call (434) 324-8241.