Are There Any Foods That Stop Gum Recession?
Posted on 2/15/2025 by Elite Dental of Natick |
 Receding gums, a common dental issue, can cause sensitivity, pain, and even tooth loss. While it's not reversible, there are ways to slow down the progression and prevent further damage. One of the most important things you can do is maintain a healthy diet.
Although no specific food can stop gum recession, studies have shown that certain foods can contribute to gum health and prevent further recession. Here are some key foods to include in your diet:
Foods Rich in Calcium
Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong teeth and bones, including the jawbone that supports your teeth. Good sources of calcium include:
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Dairy products: Milk, cheese, yogurt |
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Leafy green vegetables: Kale, spinach, collard greens |
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Calcium-fortified foods: Cereals, orange juice |
Foods Rich in Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your gums from inflammation and infection. It also helps your body produce collagen, a protein that keeps your gums strong and healthy. Good sources of vitamin C include:
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Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons |
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Bell peppers |
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Strawberries |
Foods Rich in Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and maintain bone health. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect your gums. Good sources of vitamin D include:
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Fatty fish: Salmon, tuna, mackerel |
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Eggs |
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Fortified foods: Milk, cereals |
Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce gum inflammation and protect against gum disease. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include:
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Fatty fish: Salmon, tuna, mackerel |
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Flaxseeds |
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Chia seeds |
Other Foods to Consider
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Probiotics: These live bacteria can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth, which can promote gum health. Good sources of probiotics include yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. |
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Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants that can help protect your gums from inflammation. |
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Water: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining overall health, including gum health. |
Foods to Avoid
While certain foods can help prevent gum recession, some can worsen the condition. These include:
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Sugary foods and drinks: Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease. |
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Sticky foods: These foods can get stuck in your teeth and gums, making it difficult to remove plaque. |
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Acidic foods: Acidic foods can erode your tooth enamel and irritate your gums. |
Conclusion
While no food can completely stop gum recession, a healthy diet rich in the nutrients mentioned above can help maintain gum health and prevent further damage. By incorporating these foods into your diet and practicing good oral hygiene, you can help keep your gums healthy and strong.
Remember, it's important to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. They can monitor your gum health and recommend additional treatments if needed.
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