Juicing is method that involves extracting the juice from fresh fruit and vegetables. Vegetables and fruits are part of the main food group and should be incorporated into your daily menu plan. Juicing offers a way you can get the nutrients you need without having to eat the fruits and vegetables whole. Because most fruits contain sugar and vegetables produce starch -- your teeth and gums can be affected.
Juicing
Juicing has an array of health benefits. Getting your daily serving of fruits and vegetables leaves you with nutrients such as beta-carotene, iron, potassium, fiber and an array of vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy. Juicing is beneficial if you have a difficult time eating fruits and vegetables whole because you have difficulty chewing, swallowing or dislike the taste. While you meet most of your serving requirements of fruits and vegetables through juicing, the only way to get the most nutrients is to consume them whole.
Periodontal Disease
Having a high sugar content with each juice serving can take a toll on your teeth. If you have gum or periodontal disease, you are at an increased risk for disease complications. Periodontal disease is an advanced infection of your gums. Most forms of periodontal disease are caused from the bacteria found in plaque. When plaque invades your mouth and gums, redness and swelling appear. Poor hygiene from inadequate brushing and infrequent dental care often leads to gingivitis. The sugars from juice can contribute to periodontal disease as well as the acids found in many citrus fruits, explains Drparenti.com.
Complications
Periodontal disease has two main stages -- gingivitis, which is the beginning stages where the gums are red and may bleed easy, and periodontitis, a serious form of tooth and gum decay, explains the American Academy of Periodontology. The bacteria in the gums invade the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Over time, periodontal disease can progressively cause severe infection at the root of the tooth and widespread through the gum line. Sugary concentrated drinks, such as juice can cause the disease to spread rapidly.
Solution
At the first sign of periodontal disease, see your dentist immediately. In some cases, the initial stages of gingivitis can be reversed and prevent advanced periodontal disease. Your dentist or oral surgeon will likely recommend you stay away from juice and other foods and drinks that have high concentrated levels of sugar. You will be treated for gum disease along with any underlying medical condition that may be related.
