7 Foods to Eat if You Have Gum Disease

gum disease Los Gatos, CA

More than half of Americans suffer from some type of gum disease. Luckily, with early diagnosis, you may still be able to stop the disease and overturn the damages by taking specific measures. The internet is filled with different information, sometimes erroneous, on how to treat and reverse gum diseases.

The process of combating the progression of gum disease involves the combination of three essential factors: Excellent oral hygiene, professional oral care and a gum disease tackling diet. This article focuses on the last element—diet choices to consider if you have gum disease.

What to eat for gum disease

Probiotics

Probiotics have been shown to contribute to the good bacteria in your mouth for reducing gingivitis and plaque accumulation. Fermented foods are believed to combat the growth of oral pathogens. According to a study, candidates who were given fermented dairy had higher fortification against gum disease. Sources of probiotics include kimchi, kefir and sauerkraut.

Nuts and seeds with high omega-3 content

Omega-3s are crucial elements in a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. They are particularly useful because they have anti-inflammatory properties and help to reverse gum diseases. Sources of omega-3s include pistachios, macadamia nuts and sesame seeds. They also serve as excellent sources of nutrients too.

Salmon and other fatty fish

Oily fishes, including herring, salmon and mackerel are excellent sources of nutrients and omega-3s. Their oil content is responsible for their anti-inflammatory properties on the body and their contributions to the immune system.

Grass-fed beef

Grass-fed beef has collagen, which helps to fight gum diseases. They also have high omega-3s, which is why many nutritionists and health experts are picky about the choice of cow feeds. Grain-fed beef has antibiotics, omega-6s, and other inflammatory disease-causing elements.

Cacao

Cacao contains a high amount of disease-combating catechins, which inhibit gum disease. Cacao is an excellent diet for the teeth because it helps to combat plaque, tooth decay, and cavities. In fact, the compounds found in cacao are generally more effective against tooth decay than fluoride. The compound called CBH found in cacao also helps to harden the enamel. If you want a beneficial cacao diet without high sugar content, get raw chocolate of up to 70 percent or higher. Opt for low sugar varieties too.

Green tea

Green tea contains high catechin levels. Catechins are one of the most essential nutrients for fighting gum diseases. That's not all. Green tea has been discovered to have inhibitive effects on periodontal diseases. A recent study found out that people who drank green tea were less susceptible to developing gum disease.

Red and green bell peppers

Bell peppers are high in vitamin C and could be an excellent component of a diet for combating gum disease. A cup of red bell pepper has over 300 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, while green bell peppers have 200 percent. Including green and red pepper in your diet will give you a good vitamin C boost for fighting gum disease.

In conclusion

You should inform your dentist before getting on any diet regimen. These foods are not meant to replace professional treatment if you have advanced gum disease; they only contribute to healing.

Request an appointment here: https://www.scmountaindental.com or call Brent C. Lay, DDS at (408) 500-0813 for an appointment in our Los Gatos office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Gingivitis: What You Need To Know About This Type Of Gum Disease

Avoiding gum disease at all costs is essential, as once someone is diagnosed with this dental-related disease, it means that they are in need of additional dental treatment to restore their good oral health. Even though gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, it can still cause harm to one’s overall good oral health.Thinking…

What Procedures Are Performed By A Laser Dentist?

Are you thinking about making an appointment with a laser dentist? This recent form of dentistry is becoming more common in both preventive and restorative care. It is helpful to learn more about what this professional can do and how visiting one can benefit your oral health and smile. In laser dentistry, the dentist can…

How A Laser Dentist Treats Cavities

When people experience cavities, the resulting pain can interfere with eating and flare up when the cavity comes in contact with hot or cold foods. A laser dentist can assist with repairing cavities depending on their severity and in a way that reduces the pain typically associated with such a procedure. Those who want to…

Pros And Cons Of Laser Dentistry

Thinking about choosing laser dentistry? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved laser dentistry as a treatment option for several dental conditions. Common conditions include treating gum disease, root canal infections and removing canker sores.Understanding what laser dentistry can treat is the first thing someone needs to do when considering this dental treatment option.…

Recent Posts

Tips For Comfort And Secure Attachment For New Dentures

Tips For Comfort And Secure Attachment For New Dentures

Dentures help some people regain their smiles without surgery. Breaking them in is important. It is the period of making your prosthesis a part of your life. Learning how to wear your dental prosthesis is important. If you want to find out how to maintain a secure and comfortable attachment for your dentures, here are…

How Long Can A Smile Makeover Take?

How Long Can A Smile Makeover Take?

A smile makeover is a great way to improve the aesthetic, form and function of the smile for those that have unhealthy teeth and/or gums. The process involves anywhere from one to multiple procedures, depending on the patient's desires and goals. The number of procedures tends to dictate how long the entire process can take. Outlined…