Gleaming white teeth are usually the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about a healthy smile. However, your oral health is about more than just your pearly whites! Your gums play a key role in protecting your mouth from infection and keeping your teeth in place. Recent studies are even suggesting that unhealthy gums could increase your risk of heart disease. Thankfully, simply adding a few dentist-approved snacks into your diet can naturally improve your gum health!
Low-Fat Dairy Products & Lean Proteins
Calcium is a popular mineral when it comes to building stronger teeth, but did you know that it benefits your gums as well? Calcium helps strengthen the connective tissues in your gums that keep your teeth anchored firmly in place while also fortifying the jawbone. To maximize its effectiveness, calcium needs to be paired with a complimentary nutrient called phosphorous. You can find both in foods like:
- Low-fat cheese, milk, and yogurt.
- Lean turkey, chicken, and canned salmon.
- Almonds, tofu, and leafy greens.
High-Fiber Vegetables
Raw vegetables are brimming with a garden variety of vitamins that help keep your entire body healthy. However, some are better for your mouth than others. Crunchy, high-fiber vegetables that contain a lot of water gently scrub plaque off your teeth, wash away lingering food particles, and lower your risk of tooth decay. For healthier teeth and gums, try eating more:
- Carrots, celery, and cucumbers.
- Broccoli, brussels sprouts, and beets.
- Bell peppers and sweet potatoes.
Foods with Vitamin C
Gum disease is a bacterial infection in the gum tissue. It’s the leading cause of tooth loss in the US and impacts more than 75% of the population. Thankfully, its earliest stages can be treated, reversed, and prevented with good oral hygiene and a healthy immune system. Eating more vitamin C is an excellent way to boost your immune system, fight off infections, and keep your gums healthy. This important nutrient can be found in a variety of foods like:
- Citrus fruits like oranges, pineapples, and lemons.
- Fruits like strawberries, kiwis, and papaya.
- Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale.
Your gums may not be the first thing you see when you flash your pearly whites in the mirror, but it’s still incredibly important to take care of them. Eating these healthy snacks is an easy, natural, and delicious way to improve your smile and gum health!
About the Author
Our highly experienced team at Center One Dental in Canonsburg, PA firmly believes that healthy gums are the foundation for a beautiful smile. Dr. Raj Vekariya’s first goal is always to prevent issues like gum disease from developing in the first place with routine dental checkups. However, he also provides several periodontal disease therapy treatments to keep your gum health at its best. If you’re concerned about your gums or just want to learn more about keeping them healthy, feel free to contact him via his website or at (724) 300-3700.