Foods That Prevent Gum Disease

Posted on 01/15/2018
girl smiling

Healthy gums are vital to a great smile, and in addition to the in-office dental treatments and periodontal maintenance we provide at our Montgomery office, a diligent at-home oral hygiene regimen is critical to keeping gums healthy. But brushing and flossing aren't the only things you can do to protect your gums - in fact, your diet has a big impact on periodontal health as well. At the office of Dr. Steve Davis, we strive to be a comprehensive resource for your oral health. Here are a few foods we recommend to help prevent gum disease.

Foods That Promote Healthy Gums

In addition to a daily regimen of brushing and flossing, focusing on a healthy diet is a great way to keep your gums healthy. Try incorporating these foods into your diet to prevent gum disease and promote strong gum health:

  • Raw Fruits & Vegetables: Raw fruits and veggies like carrots, apples, and broccoli are all loaded with nutrients your body needs - but they also help promote oral and gum health. The hard, crunchy pieces act like miniature brushes, scraping away food residue and plaque to keep teeth and gums healthy.
  • Minty Herbs: Parsley, mint, cilantro, rosemary, and other minty herbs all contain antibacterial properties that can control plaque and bacterial growth in the mouth. Add a few fresh herbs to every dish for an easy boost in gum health from your diet.
  • Low-Fat Yogurt & Cheeses: Dairy products contain calcium, a vital mineral for teeth, and the probiotics in yogurt can help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth. Hard, dry cheeses can also act similarly to raw vegetables, scrubbing away plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums.
  • Tea: Both green and black tea contain antibacterial properties, helping prevent the buildup of plaque and keep gums healthy and strong. Try drinking a cup of tea after every meal to promote strong oral health.

Contact Your Montgomery Periodontist

Incorporating these foods into your diet is a quick, easy way to improve your gum health, and when combined with strong oral hygiene and regular checkups with your Montgomery dentist, can help prevent gum disease and keep your smile healthy for a lifetime. If you have more questions about how diet impacts your oral health, feel free to call us at 334-271-6333 - or, if you'd like to schedule a checkup appointment, just request one via our online form. We wish you luck in maintaining a diet that promotes a healthy body & gums!