Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is one of the largest threats to a patient’s oral health—leading to gum recession and tooth loss if left untreated. Many patients assume it’s solely the result of poor oral hygiene, but other factors play a role in the health of your teeth and gums. One of these factors is nutrition and dieting. Learn more about how what you eat and drink contributes to your oral health.
What Role Does Diet Play?
The leading cause of plaque buildup is sugar and other refined carbohydrates in a person’s diet. Consuming these foods creates an acidic environment perfect for plaque-forming bacteria to grow and thrive. Additionally, sugar consumption lessens your immune system making your oral health more susceptible to periodontal disease. This is because you lack the vitamins necessary for healing. Even alcoholic drinks play a role in periodontal disease causing patients because of reduced levels of B vitamins, blood clotting inhibition, and bone formation suppression. Alcohol consumption also dehydrates your mouth leading to increased levels of bad bacteria resulting in faster plaque formation.
Nutritional Treatment
While good oral hygiene and plaque control are vital to treating periodontal disease, there are nutritional therapies as well. First, it is important to nail the basics of eating fresh, natural foods like fruit, beans, seeds, vegetables, fish, and whole grains. High fiber can be good for you. It also produces saliva that is vital to protecting your teeth from gum disease. You’ll want to avoid fatty foods, alcohol, salt, and artificial foods if possible as these contribute towards plaque accumulation.
Learn About Nutrition
Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can be one of the leading causes of periodontal disease—making balanced nutrition crucial to maintaining good oral health.
If you have any questions regarding the relationship between nutrition and your oral health, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to assist you. If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment, our periodontist in Phoenix, AZ, can tailor a discussion around your unique dietary habits to promote optimal oral health and overall well-being.
