For most people, the month of February is all about finding that perfect gift for your significant other. For others, it’s about finding the best deals on discounted candy after Valentine’s Day. For your dentist, however, February is also Gum Disease Awareness Month. Because gum disease will affect more than half of Americans at some point in their lives, it’s important you maintain excellent gum health to keep this disease at bay. Here are a few foods you can eat to keep your gums in great condition.
Leafy Greens
Spinach and kale are particularly good choices. They contain calcium and vitamin C, both of which can help reduce inflammation and fight gum disease. As an added bonus, calcium helps strengthen your tooth enamel, making you more resistant to cavities. Eat these greens in a salad, add them to your sandwiches, or even try blending them into smoothies or soups.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms have been referred to as a “superfood” because they are rich in a compound called lentinan. Lentinan prevents bacterial growth in your mouth and even battles the buildup of plaque. These mushrooms are typically found in Asian cuisine and can be eaten cooked or raw.
Citrus Fruits and Berries
These foods have high amounts of vitamin C and calcium. Just be sure not to overdo it. Although the sugars in these foods are natural, it’s still sugar, and still has the potential to cause cavities. Be sure to brush your teeth after consuming these fruits, but wait at least 30 minutes. The acid from citrus temporarily softens your enamel, and the pressure of brushing immediately afterwards can do more harm than good.
Fibrous Vegetables
Chewing the skin of fibrous vegetables will naturally scrub your teeth clean as you eat them. Additionally, it stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away any leftover food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
Water
Water is easily the best beverage choice for your gum health, especially if it’s fortified with fluoride, as most tap water is. Fluoridated water helps strengthen your teeth and makes them more resistant to acid attacks from harmful bacteria. Drinking plenty of water also keeps your gums hydrated and rinses your mouth out of bacteria, acid, and bits of food.
Lean Proteins
Items like poultry, fish, eggs, and milk are all rich in phosphorus, which helps to strengthen your teeth and provide an extra boost of protection in the fight against cavities and gum disease.
Dairy Products
Cheese and yogurt in particular contain lots of calcium. They also have a protein called casein that helps neutralize acids created by the bacteria in your mouth. Just be sure to check the label for low-sugar or sugar-free options.
Just because February is Gum Disease Awareness Month doesn’t mean you should only consume these foods in February. Keep this list in mind to promote healthy gums all year round!
About the Author
Dr. Krunal Patel studied dentistry in India before moving to the United States to complete his doctorate at New York University College of Dentistry. As a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, he keeps up to date on the latest and greatest techniques that modern dentistry has to offer. He now practices at NeoSmile Dental Care in Spring House, PA. To learn more about how to promote excellent gum health, visit Dr. Patel’s website.
