Gum disease affects nearly half of adults over 30 in the U.S. alone. While it may be more prevalent than you first thought, it’s important you do your part in avoiding it. A great oral hygiene and consistent visits to your dentist can do just that, but changing up your diet can also prove to be beneficial! Here are five key vitamins and nutrients you should get plenty of to support the soft tissues in your mouth.
Omega-3s
This is a fatty acid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. These properties make them an excellent choice for combating gum disease alongside other treatments. Some good sources for this are fatty fish, such as tuna, salmon, and mackerel.
Zinc
An essential mineral you should get adequate levels of is zinc. It can keep harmful bacteria in check while also having anti-inflammatory effects. By getting enough of it, you can support your body to protect you from gum disease and other infections. You can add it to your diet by getting plenty of seafood (like crab and oysters), nuts, and dairy products.
Probiotics
Probiotics aren’t necessarily considered a nutrient like vitamins and minerals, but their benefits shouldn’t be ignored! They are live microorganisms that can help balance out your mouth’s microbiome. It’ll even out the bad and good bacteria, preventing the former from building up too much and causing oral health issues. Yogurt, kimchi, pickles, kombucha, and other fermented items are rich in them.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a vital nutrient that’s needed for collagen production. This is a structural protein that’s an important part of your gums, meaning it helps keep them strong. If you’re deficient in this one, then you may notice inflammation, bleeding, and discomfort over time. The soft tissues can be more prone to infection, so consider eating things like oranges, strawberries, and broccoli, to name a few.
Vitamin D
To keep your immune system strong, you need to get plenty of vitamin D. By having enough levels of it, you can improve your body’s ability to respond to infection and inflammation caused by harmful bacteria. Including in your mouth. Better yet, getting it can be as easy as soaking up the sun, as your body can make it when exposed to sunlight. Fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified cheese may be some things you want to stock up on as well.
By eating the right foods, keeping up with your oral hygiene, and getting regular dental checkups, you can do your best in avoiding gum disease. That way, you can feel confident knowing your smile is problem-free.
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Dental Specialists, you benefit from a compassionate team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are dedicated to helping the local community avoid gum disease or treat it with effective solutions. By using state-of-the-art technology, you can enjoy more comfortable services that help improve your grin in the end. If you want to know how you can prevent this dental problem, schedule an appointment or call our office at (904) 683-4781.