You brush your teeth and floss to keep your teeth clean, but taking care of your gums is just as important to maintaining a healthy smile. Oral hygiene is crucial to achieving good periodontal health, but you can choose healthy snacks to prevent gum disease and other major dental issues.
Dental professionals highly recommend preventative care when it comes to your gums, and food choice is one good way to improve your oral health. Dr. Brian Sang, a dentist in Florence, SC, describes five foods that could boost your gum health and prevent periodontal disease.
Apples
An apple a day famously keeps the doctor away, but your gums will be satisfied when you eat this fruit too. Hard-textured fruits like apples boost your oral hygiene by clearing plaque and tartar that linger on your teeth. With excess build-up removed, it will be less likely that bacteria will spread and infect your gums.
Yogurt
Dairy products like yogurt contain calcium, which strengthens bones as well as your teeth. Yogurt can help your gums too because its probiotics work to balance bacteria throughout your body. This prevents bacteria build-up that could increase your likelihood of developing gum disease.
Salmon
Salmon and other oily fish are known for their high levels of omega-3, an essential fat that boosts your cardiovascular health. They are also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. This could help patients with periodontal disease who may experience inflamed gums.
Nuts
Dentists recommend nuts as an ideal snack option because it is low in sugar, a substance notorious for negatively impacting your dental health. Their crunchy texture also helps remove lingering food particles and plaque build-up, which lowers the chances of developing dental concerns.
Water
Maybe water is not exactly a food, but staying hydrated is an important step in taking care of your teeth and gums. Drinking plenty of water maintains adequate saliva production, which prevents conditions like dry mouth that allow bacteria to spread easily across your teeth and infect your gums.
Get Periodontal Care from Your Dentist in Florence, SC
Palmetto Smiles offers periodontal therapy and other general dental treatments to patients of all ages. Dr. Sang is an expert dentist in Florence, SC who also specializes in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, including tooth replacement solutions. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact our office online or reach our team by phone at 843.203.5155.