We all know that sodas and candies are bad for our teeth but did you know that some foods are good for your smile? Eating a diet that protects healthy gums is easier than you think. You just have to know the basics. Foods that brush the teeth clean, encourage saliva production, or provide essential nutrients will help you to fight gum disease.
5 Foods to Eat for a Healthier Smile
- Oranges: Vitamin C has been proven to fight gum disease. Research shows that people with periodontal disease often have low levels of Vitamin C. Those who took Vitamin C supplements, however, realized a marked improvement in their oral health. Other sources of this vitamin include strawberries, pineapples, and leafy greens.
- Carrots: Beta-carotene is converted into Vitamin A, an essential nutrient in the fight against inflammation. Beta-carotene is what gives vegetables their orange color. Therefore, if you want healthy gums in Leesburg, VA, feel free to branch out with orange peppers, squash, and any other orange-colored favorites.
- Meat and Nuts: Zinc is integral to cell repair. Those with a higher level of zinc are more likely to have healthy gums while those with a deficiency are more likely to suffer from gum disease. Vegetarians can get their zinc from legumes, dairy, or eggs.
- Salmon and Tuna: Omega-3 fatty acids are a well-known anti-inflammatory. They help fight periodontal disease and protect healthy gums. While your body cannot produce Omega-3, you can get it through foods like fatty fishes and seeds.
- Celery and Apples: These foods are not only nutritious for healthy gums but fibrous, too. The fiber brushes your teeth clean, removing food and plaque. They also increase saliva production, which rinsed food debris from your teeth.
February is Gum Disease Awareness Month; do something nice for your smile. Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jean-Claude Kharmouche to learn how you can maintain healthy gums in Leesburg, VA, and have a smile that lasts a lifetime. Call our office today.
