Unhealthy gums account for more cases of tooth loss than tooth decay. Maintaining healthy gums is essential to warding off the corrosive effects of periodontal disease, associated with receding gums, bone loss and eventual loss of teeth. When plaque caused by bacteria in the mouth is not cleaned away, it hardens into tartar. Tartar on the gumline can cause spongy, sore and inflamed gums (or gingivitis), the beginning of periodontal disease. Lack of oral hygiene and poor nutrition can put you at higher risk for gum disease. Certain vitamins can promote gum health.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for building strong bones and teeth. Vitamin A-rich foods include beef, eggs, liver, salmon, shrimp and cheese. The body also converts beta carotene (a nutrient found in brightly pigmented fruits and vegetables) into vitamin A. Orange-colored vegetables such as carrots, yams, pumpkins or orange fruits and dark green leafy vegetables (think spinach, chard) are full of beta-carotene.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C nurtures healthy gums. A study in the Journal of Periodontology reported that people who consumed less than the recommended dietary allowance of at least 60 milligrams of vitamin C daily have one-and-a-half times the risk of developing periodontal disease. Why? Vitamin C is essential in the formation of connective tissue, bones and teeth. In addition, its antioxidant properties help to neutralize tissue-destructive free radicals, preventing tissue damage.
Indulge in rich natural sources of vitamin C: all kinds of citrus fruits, apples, strawberries, kiwis, papaya, mango, melons, peppers, broccoli, collards, onions, radishes and watercress.
Vitamin D
The body manufactures vitamin D with the help of sunlight. Vitamin D is necessary for the proper utilization of calcium (another important nutrient for bone health) by the body. Together, they work to benefit bones and teeth. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, vitamin D and calcium deficiencies can result in bone loss and increased inflammation. As noted, inflammation of the gums is recognized symptom of periodontal disease. It follows that vitamin D and calcium are important in maintaining gum health.
To get adequate vitamin D, you should get at least 10 to 15 minutes of sunshine at least 2 times a week. If you live in an area with limited sunlight exposure, look for foods fortified with vitamin D such as milk, eggs, sardines, tuna and anchovies.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is fat soluble and rich in antioxidants. Not only is it good for the skin, Consumer Labs also listed vitamin E as one of the most popular ingredients for treating oral problems. It is often used as a topical application to inflamed or bleeding gums. An easy way to get it is to break open a capsule of vitamin E and rub it on affected area to promote speedier healing and recovery in gums.
Tags: periodontal disease, bones teeth, Vitamin Vitamin, bone loss, healthy gums, vitamin calcium, Vitamin essential
