How to Keep Your Periodontal Health in Tip-Top Shape

What are teeth without gums? Nothing. In fact, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Not only is periodontal disease bad for your oral hygiene, but it’s been proven to be associated with cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, and dementia. Luckily, maintaining healthy gums and preventing periodontal disease is easier than you may think.

1. Eat more periodontal friendly foods! This include things like onions, which contain neutralizing oral bacteria and microbial properties that target bacteria that causes cavities and gum disease. It also includes leafy greens! Greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce are packed with healthy vitamins and minerals, which boost the production of red blood cells and actually REDUCES inflammation. Another periodontal friendly food is DAIRY! That’s right, dairy products are great for your gums because they contain casein, which neutralizes oral acids, which otherwise could be dangerous for your tooth enamel and gum tissue. Green tea also REAPS benefits, as there is evidence that proves this tea can fight inflammation.

2. QUIT SMOKING! Smoking is directly correlated to gum disease. This is because smoking weakens your immune system, which makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. Not only does it make it more difficult to fight off, but it also makes it more challenging for them to heal once they’ve been damaged.

3. Get regular dental cleanings. Your dentist will be able to detect early gum disease symptoms if you have regular cleanings (we recommend every six months).

4. This may seem obvious, but brush your teeth twice a day and ALWAYS FLOSS! By brushing, you’re removing the food and plaque that is trapped between your teeth and gums. Flossing helps remove the food and plaque that’s beyond your toothbrush’s reach. The good part about flossing is that it doesn’t matter when you do it; you can do it in the morning, at night, or even right in the middle of the day!

If you have any questions about your periodontal health, give us a call at Fabrice J. Gallez, DDS, MS, San Jose Phone Number 408-356-9366 and we’ll be happy to help!