Eat These Foods to Make Your Gums Stronger

Even if someone has beautiful white teeth, their gum tissue could begin showing signs of disease. According to the CDC, half of all Americans over the age of 30 have periodontal disease. 

Many people do not understand the seriousness of periodontal disease. What starts as gingivitis can evolve to periodontitis. This disease not only affects the health of a person’s smile, but it can also put them at a greater risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke. Signs of gum disease include the following. 

• Puffy, swollen gums
• Redness and inflammation
• Gums feel tender to the touch
• Gums bleed easily when brushing
• Bad breath
• Pus drainage between the teeth
• Receding gums

There are multiple ways to prevent gum disease. One of the most beneficial methods of prevention is brushing and flossing. Keeping the mouth clean prevents plaque from being pushed under the gums and causing bacteria to grow. 

Those who want to go above and beyond should make sure they are feeding their gum tissue the right nutrients. Gums need nourishment just like all tissues in the body. Eating the right foods and practicing good oral hygiene maximizes gum health. 

Six Foods for Better Gum Health

Eating a healthy diet is essential for good oral health. Those who want to protect the health of their gums should include the following foods in their diet. 

1. Yogurt
Yogurt is a dairy product that is loaded with calcium. It also includes millions of probiotics, which are the good bacteria your mouth needs. Both of these can protect your smile against cavities and gum disease. 

The probiotics in yogurt can even help prevent bad breath. Yogurt is one of the best foods for keeping your mouth healthy.

2. Whole Grains
Whole grains are an important part of a healthy diet. Whole wheat bread, oatmeal, and brown rice give the body the nutrients it needs to produce healthy gum tissue. According to the American Dietetic Association, individuals should consume three whole-grain servings a day. 

3. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are one of the healthiest foods on the planet. Greens are packed with calcium and contain nutrients such as folic acid, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous. All of these are essential vitamins and minerals for healthy gum tissue. 

4. Apples
Everyone has heard the adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” It turns out there is more truth to this statement than many people know. Apples benefit oral health because their fiber content helps to stimulate the gum tissue and increase blood flow. 

The pectin in apples helps to clean plaque from the teeth, and the action of eating the apple produces a steady flow of alkalizing saliva, which washes away harmful bacteria on the teeth. 

5. Raw Onions
Many people are surprised to learn raw onions are highly beneficial in keeping oral bacteria at bay. Raw onions contain sulfur compounds with antimicrobial properties. These compounds destroy the bad bacteria in the mouth so cavities and gum disease are prevented. 

6. Ginger
Ginger is a root vegetable that offers a pungent spiciness and warmth. When added to a healthy diet, this root offers powerful anti-inflammatory action. A hallmark sign of gingivitis is gum inflammation. Adding raw ginger to foods helps keep gum tissue healthy. 

These six foods should be added to a healthy diet for keeping gingivitis and gum disease at bay. When a person takes the initiative of overhauling their diet, they will begin to see improvements in the health of their gum tissue. 

Take Care of Gum Tissue with Gentle Brushing and Flossing

As mentioned above, brushing and flossing are essential for good oral health. Many people believe brushing and flossing only benefit the teeth, but they are also helpful for keeping the gum tissue healthy and free of disease. 

While a lack of brushing undoubtedly causes problems with a person’s oral health, improper brushing is bad for the gums. It is important to use a toothbrush with soft bristles. The brushing technique is also integral. 

Many people damage their teeth and gums by brushing way too hard than they should. Many dentists recommend their patients use their non-dominant hand for brushing. With this hand, a person will likely use less force and be gentler on their teeth and gums. 

In addition to the above, it is also essential individuals change out their toothbrushes every three months and after every illness. Toothbrushes not only become damaged and less effective over time, but they can also harbor bacteria. 

To keep bacteria from growing on toothbrushes, store them with a cover, and clean them with peroxide. With fewer bacteria on the brush, there will be less risk of gum infections. 

See the Dentist Often

People of all ages need to see the dentist at least twice a year. Bi-yearly dental exams keep the teeth free of tartar and help the dentist to find minor oral health concerns before they turn into bigger problems. 

It is important to note that minor gingivitis, when discovered in its earliest stages, is entirely reversible with good oral hygiene practices alone. Sometimes, dentists will also prescribe a medicated mouth rinse to help keep bacteria levels in control so the gum condition is healed. 

Take Care of Your Gums Now for Better Oral Health

People can get gum disease at any age, but the older the person, the greater the risk. Taking care of your gums should be a priority. 

In addition to brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist for cleanings and exams, it is important to consume a healthy diet. Adding the above foods into your diet will give your gum tissue the nourishment it needs. 

If you have been experiencing signs of gum problems, such as redness and swelling, see the dentist now. Waiting too long could cause further oral health concerns.