Tasty Snacks for Healthier Gums

When referring to a healthy smile, many people think about a gleaming set of pearly whites. However, great oral health takes more than clean teeth! Your gums play an essential role in keeping your mouth healthy and your teeth in place. In fact, unhealthy gums could increase your risk of rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Thankfully, you can easily improve your gum health with these dentist-approved snacks!

High-Fiber Vegetables

Raw vegetables that contain high amounts of fiber and water can help reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth. As you chew them, they gently scrub the surfaces of your teeth and wash away any lingering particles. Not only does this lower your risk of cavities, but it also protects your gums against a common bacterial infection known as gum disease. For a healthier smile, try eating more vegetables like:

• Cucumbers, celery, and carrots.
• Brussels sprouts and broccoli.
• Sweet potatoes and bell peppers.

Dairy Products and Lean Proteins

Calcium is well-known for fortifying teeth and bones, but it’s important for healthy gums as well. This mineral helps strengthens the connective tissues in your gums that keep your teeth firmly in place. To optimize calcium’s effectiveness, it should be paired with another nutrient called phosphorus. You can reinforce your gum health with foods like:

• Low-fat yogurt, cheese, and milk.
• Canned salmon, lean turkey, and chicken.
• Tofu, almonds, and white beans.

Foods with Vitamin C

Unhealthy gums are prone to periodontal (gum) disease, which is a common oral health issue that can lead to permanent jawbone damage, tooth loss, and an increased risk of heart disease. Thankfully, its earliest stages can be reversed and prevented by enhancing your immune system and revitalizing your gum tissue. Vitamin C is an excellent way to help your body naturally fight off infections all over your body, including your mouth. It can be found in a wide variety of foods, like:

• Lemons, oranges, and pineapples.
• Strawberries, kiwis, and papaya.
• Dark, leafy greens like spinach and kale.

If you want to keep your beautiful smile healthy and intact, don’t forget to take care of your gums! Adding these foods into your daily diet is a natural, easy, and delicious way to boost your gum health.

About the Author

Dr. J. Peter St. Clair has been helping the smiles of Rowley, MA stay happy and healthy since 1996. His goal is to provide thorough, regular care in order to stop oral health issues before they develop. However, if unhealthy gums are detected, he can help you create a personalized treatment plan to get your gum health back on track with a variety of periodontal treatments. If you’re concerned about gum disease, don’t hesitate to contact him via his website or at (978) 948-2030.