Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is the inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is a form of periodontal disease caused by poor dental hygiene, gum irritation by vigorous brushing or ill-fitting mouth appliances, poor nutrition, smoking, chewing tobacco, uncontrolled diabetes, AIDS or leukemia. Patients should maintain strict oral hygiene so as to prevent gum disease. Vitamin C is important for healing and preventing gum disease.
Vitamin C Function
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is needed for growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body. It is important for healing wounds and maintaining bones and teeth. Vitamin C is also a natural antioxidant that protects against various infections of the mouth and other parts of the body. Deficiency in vitamin C causes gum disease. Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and serious damage to the tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
Vitamin C Sources
The daily recommended dietary intake of vitamin C is 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women, according to MedlinePlus. The best way to get the daily requirement of vitamin C is to eat foods rich in the vitamin, such as oranges, mangoes, watermelon, papaya, pineapples, red peppers, green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli and turnip greens.
Vitamin C Supplements
Synthetic vitamin C is known as ascorbic acid and is used to treat severe gum disease. People with gum disease who are unable to eat due to sores in the mouth may also be prescribed vitamin C supplements. Ascorbic acid is available in form of tablets, lozenges, syrup, chewable tablets, liquid drops and extended-release capsules. Extended-release capsules should be swallowed whole without chewing to avoid releasing too much medication at once. Common side effects of ascorbic acid include upset stomach and diarrhea.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
People with gum disease experience symptoms such as bleeding gums even with gentle brushing, red swollen gums, mouth sores, shiny appearance of gums, gums that are tender when touched and bad breath. You should receive a professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year to prevent gingivitis. You should also brush and floss your teeth twice a day.
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