What Foods to Eat When You’ve Got Gum Disease

Periodontal or gum disease is one of the common oral health issues your holistic dentist Wilmington, DE sees on a regular basis Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that half of Americans over the age of 30 struggle with periodontal (gum) disease? That’s about 64.7 million people! The best way to combat gingivitis (early gum disease) and more advanced issues to catch it early. That’s why it’s important to talk with your dentist often and take extra special care of your teeth at home too. We can work together to create a treatment plan that usually involves some form of gum therapy in our Wilmington, DE holistic dental office, good oral hygiene at home, and a change in diet.

Eat Healthy, Be Healthy

Make sure you’re always maintaining a proper diet, especially one that’s able to support your immune system so that it stays healthy and strong. Even if you brush twice every single day and are super good about flossing, if you’re not eating the right foods, you can still get gum disease. Think of what you’re putting into your body as medicine or fuel to help your body operate at peak performance.

Consider the benefits of some of these foods and supplements:

• Vitamin C – Scientists and doctors suggest that low vitamin C levels have been noted in patients with gum disease. The powerful vitamin does a great job at fighting disease-causing bacteria and hat low vitamin C levels have been noted in patients with gum disease. The powerful vitamin does a great job at fighting disease-causing bacteria and can help boost your gum regeneration levels.
• Omega-3s – Known for their effective anti-inflammatory properties, Omega-3s also support a healthy immune system just like vitamin C. Make time to eat these foods that are rich with Omega-3s, and your gums will thank you:
  • Spinach
  • Eggs
  • Salmon
  • Sardines
  • Walnuts
  • Tofu
  • Soybeans
  • Brussels Sprouts
• Beta Carotene – Beta carotene can help unhealthy gums heal faster. This awesome provitamin that your body will break down and eventually turn into helpful vitamin A that can significantly reduce inflammation too. Its most commonly found in fruits and vegetables such as:
  • Carrots
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Canteloupe
  • Apricots

Because gum disease is an inflammatory disease that affects the soft and hard structures that support your teeth, it’s easy to see why many of these foods are known for their anti-inflammatory characteristics and benefits. Inflammation is usually the result of a bacterial infection, but there are many factors including genetics, smoking, lack of at-home dental care, diet, age, medications, and underlying health problems that can contribute to or worsen the signs and symptoms.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about how you can help combat gum disease and avoid it in the future by eating certain foods rich with strong vitamins. Like we said before, it’s important to catch gum disease early before it has a chance to damage your oral health, even causing tooth loss. Call your holistic dentist in Wilmington, today and let’s schedule a visit to talk.

About The Author

Dr. Lewis Yu

Dr. Lewis Yu, who graduated with a dental degree, completed a two-year postgraduate oral surgery training in New York City and Pennsylvania. Board-certified in Naturopathic Medicine and Integrated Biological Dental Medicine, he practiced in Philadelphia and New Jersey before joining All About Smiles. Dr. Yu is affiliated with the Holistic Dental Association and Talkinternational.com.

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