Suggested diet for people with periodontitis
Periodontal disease is a serious and prevalent condition that has affected roughly about 80% of adults. This is characterized by the inflammation and bleeding of the gums. This condition can worsen to more chronic levels that may result to bone decay, loss of connective tissue and even tooth loss. The best offense in maintaining good oral health is through good defense. Regular visits to your dentist or dental hygienist can help treat gum disease. Certain food and plant compounds have been found to show a positive effect on one’s oral health.
Calcium and Vitamin C was found to have strong associations with oral health. Deficiency of any of these two vitamins can significantly increase the risk of periodontal disease. Calcium has been known to help strengthen the bone mass beneath the gum line which minimize bone decay from bacteria. Vitamin C on the other hand, helps reduce the periodontal pockets that harbor harmful bacteria. It keeps periodontal disease from progressing and can also alleviate symptoms in people with periodontal disease because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It is best to eat calcium rich foods like dairy, leafy green vegetables and fortified foods that can guard the mouth against bone loss. For Vitamin C, oranges, papaya, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli and cauliflower are recommended due to its high concentrations of it.
Another food that can strengthen one’s oral defenses is folic acid. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of folic acid in the preservation of gum tissues and in reducing the risk of periodontal disease. This has the ability to reduce the gum tissue’s inflammatory response and make gum tissue more resilient to irritants such as bacteria and plaque. It also has been clinically tested in mouthwash solutions showing significant improvement after using it as a mouthwash.
Green tea extract is another suggested diet for those who suffer from periodontitis. It is rich in catechins, an antioxidant that helps combat oral plaque and bacteria. One research has demonstrated the capability of green tea extract in killing oral bacteria and inhibiting the activity of collagenase, a natural enzyme that becomes overactive in the presence of bacterial overgrowth.
Even though a nutritious diet rich in Calcium, Vitamin C and folic acid can help against periodontitis, diligent oral hygiene is also important. In the prevention or treatment for periodontal disease, it is very important for a person to brush and floss daily to help remove any plaque or bacteria in the mouth. It is also highly recommended to have a regular visit to the dentist and have a routine check up to know what the extent of the disease is and what are other ways to treat it.