6 Essential Vitamins & Minerals for Healthy Gums

Gum disease is one of the most prominent oral health issues. While brushing and flossing are incredibly important for preventing the problem, they aren’t the only steps you can take. Your diet is also crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy and bacteria-free. But what foods are best for your gums? Read on to learn about six vitamins and minerals you should consume to prevent periodontal disease!

Vitamin A

If you want to have healthy mucus membranes, you’ll want to have plenty of vitamin A. This nutrient helps your mouth recover quicker and can keep it from drying up. If there isn’t enough saliva production, this can put your gums at risk of developing periodontal disease. You can get vitamin A by eating spinach, kale, carrots, fish, egg yolks, pumpkin, and liver.

Calcium

Did you grow up learning that drinking lots of milk would make your bones strong? This is due to milk having a high amount of calcium, which is an essential mineral for building bone tissue and promoting structural support. It can also strengthen your enamel as well as your jawbone, which will help preserve your pearly whites in the long run. Being calcium deficient can increase your risk of developing gum disease. Other than milk, try eating yogurt, cheese, broccoli, and salmon.

Vitamin C

This is a necessary vitamin for promoting healthy soft oral tissues, and it can effectively prevent the early stages of gum disease (or gingivitis). While vitamin C deficiency won’t result in periodontal disease, those who are suffering from this infection often have lower levels of this nutrient. You can find this in potatoes, citrus fruits, strawberries, and leafy greens.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is needed to help your body absorb calcium efficiently. Without enough of it, you’re more likely to struggle with calcium deficiency. Not only can you gain plenty of this vitamin via sunlight, but you can also consume foods like egg yolks, fortified milk, portobello mushrooms, canned tuna, and fatty fish.

Phosphorus

This mineral is designed to support the calcium in your body, helping to build strong teeth and bones. You can find this in most seafood, including cod, tuna, scallops, sardines, and shrimp. Phosphorus can also be consumed via plant-based foods like soybeans, lentils, and pumpkin seeds.

Potassium

Potassium is necessary for improving bone tissue density. This mineral, alongside magnesium, can ensure your blood isn’t too acidic, which can impact your teeth. If your blood’s acidity is too high, it can end up leaching calcium from your bones and teeth, resulting in a higher chance of dental decay and gum disease. Try eating lima beans, bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, avocadoes, and prunes to get plenty of potassium.

If you want to preserve healthy gums, you’ll need to maintain a healthy diet consisting of these vitamins and minerals. By consuming the above kinds of foods in your meals, you’ll be able to enjoy a much healthier smile in the long run!

About the Author

Dr. Jerome L. Faist studied at Case Western Reserve University. He regularly seeks continuing education to refine his skills and is a member of several groups like the American Dental Association and the Cleveland Dental Society. He offers a wide range of advanced services, including gum disease treatment. If you’d like to know more about how to maintain healthy gums, visit his website or call 216-464-2448.