You may already know that brushing and flossing can help you avoid common oral concerns, such as cavities and gum disease, but did you know your diet can also significantly affect your dental health? For instance, reducing your consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks can help safeguard your smile.
But eating healthily isn’t always about cutting things out. There are also different ingredients you can eat more of to support your enamel and connective tissues. If you’re unsure what foods might help you build strong, healthy gums, continue reading to learn about 3 popular options!
Option #1: Citrus Fruits
Many citrus fruits, like oranges and lemons, are high in vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid, which is essential for supporting your connective tissues. This ingredient plays an essential role in your body’s ability to produce and maintain collagen, or the protein that gives your tissues their strength and elasticity.
According to the NIH (National Institutes of Health), the average adult should consume 90-120 mg of vitamin C daily. If you’re concerned that you’re not getting enough, it’s usually not too difficult to improve your levels. Oranges contain approximately 30 to 50 mg, and in many instances, a single 8-ounce cup of orange juice contains all the vitamin C you need to meet the recommended intake value.
Option #2: Green Tea
Green tea is another popular option that may help improve your dental health. This beverage is rich in antioxidant compounds called catechins that are known for reducing inflammation, which can be incredibly helpful in preventing periodontal problems.
Gum disease occurs when bacteria in your mouth penetrate your connective tissues, causing an infection that triggers your body’s immune response. This is what leads to swelling and bleeding when you brush and floss. The anti-inflammatory properties of green tea help reduce bacteria and neutralize saliva acidity to help prevent oral issues.
Option #3: Fatty Fish
Would you be surprised to learn that salmon, mackerel, and other fatty fish can also benefit your gums? They contain plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, which also have anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, some sources have reported they can potentially reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease by 23% to 30%.
Not only do omega-3’s help inhibit the growth of the germs responsible for causing gum problems, but they can also support the repair of tissues damaged by the infection. That means they can both prevent the spread of this condition and also aid your recovery from pre-existing problems.
If you have additional questions about how you can help prevent potential problems and preserve your gum health, you can learn more by scheduling a checkup and cleaning with your dentist!
About the Practice
Dr. Jeff Lineberry received his dental degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and has proudly served patients and families in the Cocoa Beach community for several years. From preventive care to cosmetic and restorative treatments, our team offers a range of services to support your smile. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (321) 783-7514 or visit us online; we can’t wait to connect with you!