Although bright healthy teeth are often seen as the embodiment of great oral health, the gums are just as important. Periodontal health is crucial to a healthy smile because the gums hold the teeth securely in place and protect the supportive bone.
So, how can we take care of our periodontal health? For starters, it’s absolutely critical to brush twice a day and to floss at least once per day. Doing this will remove harmful bacteria that irritates the gum tissue and cause gum disease.
Another helpful way to promote gum health is to take a critical look at your diet.
Top 3 Foods to Promote Healthy Gums
A simple way to promote periodontal health is to include specific foods that boost the health of your gums. Some gum-friendly options include:
- Leafy Greens: Including nutrient-packed leafy greens in your diet won’t just lead to optimal functioning of the body but it can also promote healthy periodontal tissue. Greens like kale and spinach are rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost red blood cell production and to reduce inflammation. The extra chewing required to consume leafy greens also promote saliva production. More saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria that can harm dental health.
- Green Tea: Do you enjoy drinking a cup of afternoon tea? Here’s another reason for tea drinkers to rejoice; green tea can promote healthy gums! A Japanese study looked at nearly 1,000 men and found that those who drank green tea on a regular basis had better periodontal health than those who did not. The antioxidants in green tea, called catechins, help fight off gum inflammation.
- Yogurt and Cheese: The calcium in yogurt and cheese is beneficial for dental health in a number of ways. It’s helpful for teeth because calcium provides structural support. Additionally, it also benefits gum health because these dairy products neutralize harmful acids in the mouth that can cause gum inflammation.
Contact us About Your Periodontal Health
While dietary choices can boost your periodontal health, it’s still important to visit your dentist regularly. If you have any concerns regarding your periodontal health or your dental health in general, don’t hesitate to contact our office!