What to Eat and Drink for Healthier Gums

For some people, the month of February is all about flowers, chocolates, and planning the perfect date. But did you know that February is also Gum Disease Awareness Month? This observance was created to bring awareness to gum disease, the most common bacterial infection in the United States. In fact, it’s estimated to affect up to 85% of the population at some point in their lives. To attempt to prevent this disease, your dentist has decided to share this list of steps you can take to promote healthier gums.

Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables

There’s a reason your parents always told you to eat your fruits and veggies. They’re chock full of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are essential for a healthy mouth and body. Chewing raw vegetables and fruits, especially crunchy ones, naturally scrubs your teeth clean, as it increases the production of saliva, which rinses leftover food particles and acids out of your mouth.

With so many choices out there, you might be wondering which fruits and veggies are best for your oral health. The truth is that as long as you eat a colorful variety, your body will receive most of the nutrients it needs. Leafy greens like kale or spinach are excellent choices, as they contain vitamin C and calcium, which help to reduce gum inflammation, as well as strengthen your teeth. Shiitake mushrooms are another great choice, since they’re rich in lentinan, a compound that inhibits bacterial growth and fights plaque buildup.

Reduce Your Sugar Intake

When bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, they create acid that wears down your tooth enamel and causes cavities. Not only that, but high sugar intake increases the amount of plaque accumulation in your mouth. Bacteria in plaque can irritate your gums, causing inflammation that leads to gum disease.

A simple way to combat this is to choose sugar-free snacks. If you elect to eat sugary treats, do so with your meals. Saliva production increases at mealtimes, helping to wash away the excess sugar.

Drink Plenty of Water

Another way to reduce your sugar intake is to substitute a sugary drink for good old-fashioned water. Especially when it contains fluoride, water is just about the best beverage for your dental health. Fluoridated water helps fight cavities and strengthen your teeth. Water in general also promotes saliva flow.

Get Enough Dairy and Protein

Eggs, fish, milk, meat, and poultry are all rich in phosphorus, which strengthens your teeth and fights plaque accumulation. Additionally, dairy products like cheese and yogurt contain a special protein called casein that neutralizes acids created by the bacteria in your mouth, preventing them from irritating your gum tissue.

This February, celebrate Gum Disease Awareness Month in style by sticking to mouth-healthy foods. And, it never hurts to visit your dentist for a cleaning too!

About the Author

Dr. Ukti Phadnis is a dentist in Wethersfield, CT who earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Connecticut’s School of Dental Medicine. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dentistry, including gum disease prevention and treatment. To learn more about how you can keep your gums healthy, visit Dr. Phadnis’ website.