Gums are far more important than we give them credit for. They are responsible for keeping teeth secure, the strength of our oral bones and they fight off bacteria every day. So. it’s only fair that we give them a helping hand when it comes to our dental care.
There are certain foods that can help to strengthen and support your gums so your whole mouth stays as healthy as possible for as long as possible. Take a look at these foods for healthy gums.
1. Onions
You’d be forgiven for assuming that onions aren’t good for your oral hygiene but the exact opposite is true. Onions have microbial properties that fight against common bacteria to keep the mouth healthy.
These common bacteria are often the cause of problems like gingivitis and cavities. You can add more onion to your diet by putting it in salads, burgers, stir fry and more.
2. Greens
Eating leafy greens has many health benefits, but did you know that they are ideal for your oral health? Firstly, leafy greens are generally chewy which can help you to produce more saliva. The more saliva you produce, the easier it will be for you to naturally remove bacteria, plaque, and food particles.
Secondly, leafy greens are packed full of vitamin C. Vitamin C can reduce inflammation and boost red blood cells. A side plate of leafy greens with each evening meal is a great weapon against gum disease.
3. Celery and Apples
Foods like celery and apples have a crunch that helps to remove plaque and bacteria from teeth. For example, celery is good at getting in the crevices of teeth, where very few other things can.
In addition, these kinds of foods are usually full of fiber and can be difficult to chew. Again, this produces saliva which helps to keep teeth and gums clean.
4. Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms contain an antibacterial compound called Lentinan. They can help to fight against a build of plaque and bacteria that commonly causes gum disease. Gum disease can cause irritation, receding gum lines, and eventual tooth loss but the compound in Shiitake mushrooms can protect you from all of that.
Luckily, Shiitake mushrooms are fairly easy to add to most meals. Whether you saute them and eat them as a side dish or chop them and add them to a curry, they’re a tasty addition to most common meals.
Finding the Best Foods For Healthy Gums
It’s often common knowledge when it comes to foods we should avoid to maintain healthy gums. But, knowing what to add to your diet is something entirely different. Surprisingly, the best foods for healthy gums are ones that most people would be happy to eat.
So, it doesn’t mean you have to move out of your comfort zone to maintain a healthy mouth. Take a look at some more tips on preventing tooth decay and keeping your teeth strong.
