More than 5 percent of all adults in the U.S. have periodontal disease, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports. Poor periodontal health can lead to poor nutrient intake, premature tooth loss and chronic pain. Keep your gums healthy by brushing and flossing daily and visiting your dentist regularly. In addition, eating a healthy diet can promote periodontal health.
Beverages
The beverages you drink can make a significant difference in the health of your gums and teeth. Drinking water clears out food buildup on teeth and gums that can lead to plaque formation. However, drinking sugary and acidic drinks such as soda and juice can promote bacterial growth in the mouth, increasing the risk of periodontal infection.
Carbohydrates
The most important dietary factor in periodontal health is carbohydrates, the Institute for Optimum Nutrition says. Choosing healthy carbs such as whole grains, vegetables, beans and fruits doesn't promote bacterial growth like sugary foods and refined grains do. The institute adds that a sugary diet decreases the effectiveness of the immune system, making your gums more susceptible to infection.
Vitamins and Minerals
Getting adequate vitamins and minerals promotes strong periodontal tissue formation and a strong immune system. Vitamin C is particularly important for periodontal health. First, vitamin C helps your body build burly and bacteria-resilient gum tissue by contributing to collagen production. Additionally, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, knocking out free radicals that set out to damage and inflame your gums. The Institute for Optimum Nutrition notes that vitamin A, vitamin E, selenium and zinc are other vitamins and minerals important for periodontal health.
Dairy
Dairy products are particularly good for gum health and are a must in any diet aiming to boost periodontal health. Intake of dairy products is associated with a significantly lower risk of periodontal disease. Research in the February 2006 edition of the "Journal of Periodontology" found that people who consume dairy cut their risk of periodontal disease by one-third when compared with people who rarely eat dairy. The calcium and vitamin D in dairy help reduce inflammation and boost immunity in the gums.
References
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Periodontal Disease in Adults
- American Academy of Periodontology: Nourish Your Smile with a Well-Balanced Diet
- Institute for Optimum Nutrition: Nutritional Factors in Gum Disease
- "Journal of Periodontology": Increased Intake of Dairy Products Is Related to Lower Periodontitis Prevalence
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