Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that results when bacteria, food particles and saliva form a sticky plaque on the teeth that hardens into a form of tartar that brushing and flossing cannot remove. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more serious form of inflammation, known as periodontitis, an oral infection that causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and may eventually lead to bone and tooth loss. Although routine dental care and cleaning is the best treatment for gingivitis, adequate nutrition is also necessary to maintain oral health, and is an important factor in supporting the body's immune response.
Step 1
Eliminate sugar-sweetened juices and soft drinks. Limit alcohol consumption or discontinue entirely.
Step 2
Choose crunchy, fiber rich foods. Limit consumption of soft foods that lodge between the teeth and promote bacterial growth.
Step 3
Avoid eating processed foods with added sugar. Raised blood sugar levels increase the likelihood of inflammation and are associated with an increase in type 2 diabetes and other chronic health conditions.
Step 4
Eat a diet rich in yellow and dark green vegetables. Vitamin C helps to keep gum tissue healthy and fight off the effects of inflammation that compromises the tissue and bone surrounding the teeth.
Step 5
Eat at least one serving of raw vegetables each day. Chew fibrous foods such as carrots, broccoli, peppers and radishes to help clean and stimulate the teeth and gums.
Tips and Warnings
- Drink enough water to keep your mouth moist with adequate saliva to control bacteria and neutralize plaque.
