What Foods to Avoid If You Have Gum Disease?

Most people know the general rules of taking care of their teeth by flossing at least once and brushing twice daily. However, the same cannot be said regarding oral care with gum disease. Although oral hygiene is vital for good oral health, it is insufficient. You should schedule dental appointments every six months at the dentist near you for professional cleaning. The cleanings are essential to prevent the buildup of plaque that leads to periodontitis.

If you have periodontitis, the dentist in Summerland can treat the disease before it reaches the advanced stages, which can lead to tooth loss. Additionally, the dental professional will provide oral care tips to help you cope with the disease. One of the tips involves foods to avoid when you have gum disease. Below, you will find what foods you should avoid with periodontitis and what to take instead.

Foods To Avoid If You Have Periodontitis

Acidic Foods

These kinds of foods provide a conducive environment for the growth of bacteria in your gums. Examples of acidic foods include citrus fruits, pickled veggies, and limes. On top of that, if the disease causes inflammation in your gums, consuming acidic foods will irritate your gums and can worsen the symptom.

The dentist near you also recommends consuming highly acidic foods as they are not gentle on your teeth’s enamel. If you have to consume them, do it in moderation to prevent enamel erosion.

Sweet Drinks and Foods

We all know that sugary drinks and foods are not good for oral health. So, what about if you have periodontitis? It is best to know that sugar compromises the health of your gums and teeth as it can worsen periodontitis and lead to tooth decay. Examples of sugary drinks and foods to avoid are white bread, pasta sauce, fruit yogurt, peanut butter, candies, and desserts.

Besides the listed foods, you should read the label of each food or drink you want to take. If the amount of sugar is high, avoid taking such as it will have a negative effect on your road to recovery from periodontitis.

Extremely Hot and Cold Foods and Drinks

Your gums are left soft and tender after periodontitis. Moreover, the disease affects the nerves of your gums and teeth, making them more sensitive. Therefore, taking hot or cold foods and drinks can lead to teeth sensitivity and cause inflammation of the gums. Taking such foods can also cause immense pain as your teeth and gums are more responsive to stimuli.

Now that you know the foods to avoid with periodontitis, what can you take with this disease?

Foods To Take with Periodontitis

Probiotics

Our mouths contain good and bad bacteria that occur naturally. The harmful bacteria cause tooth decay and periodontitis. Fortunately, probiotics are rich in good bacteria and can help fight against harmful bacteria that lead to oral infections and periodontitis.

So, these fermented foods will fortify your gums and teeth to combat the growth of oral pathogens. Examples of probiotics include sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi, and yogurt.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are known to have vitamin C, which keeps the connective tissues in your gums healthy and strong. Therefore, if the periodontal disease has led to gum recession, leafy greens such as kale, broccoli, spinach, and arugula can help strengthen your gums to hold your teeth in place.

In addition, leafy greens act as a natural toothbrush that assists in dislodging food debris and plaque on your teeth’s surface, preventing the buildup of plaque.

Foods Rich In Omega-3

Foods rich in omega-3 should be included in your daily meal. One major property found in omega-3-rich foods is their anti-inflammatory feature. The anti-inflammatory feature will help soothe your painful gums and heal the damage caused by the disease.

Some common sources of omega-3 include macadamia nuts, sesame seeds, herring, mackerel, salmon, fatty fish, and pistachios.

Green Tea

Green tea contains high levels of catechin, essential in fighting infections and diseases in your gums. Additionally, green tea has antibacterial properties that reduce plaque and weaken harmful bacteria in your mouth, thereby inhibiting the effects of gum disease.

Dairy Products

Dairy products are rich in calcium, which strengthens teeth and gums. In addition, dairy products help remineralize your teeth’s enamel.
Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss, so you should head to Summerland Dental Centre once you notice the early signs of the disease. Our dental professional will treat the disease and provide further tips for a smooth recovery.