In the effort to maintain good dental health, taking care of your gums is critical. Eating sugary substances, for example, can cause bacteria to form along the gum line, leading to gingivitis. If not caught in the early stages, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease. To avoid painful dental procedures, ditch gum-damaging sweets, and opt for the foods below instead. 

3 Foods That Promote Healthy, Pain-Free Gums

1. Onions

Whether you prefer them raw or cooked, you should include more onions in your diet. This vegetable contains antimicrobial sulfur compounds that target and eliminate the bacteria that clings to and eat away at gum tissue. After eating a meal with onions, make sure to brush teeth to get rid of the lingering taste and odor left behind. 

2. Garlic

The subtle spice and salty notes make garlic a great pairing with many savory foods. In addition to enhancing the flavor profile of your meals, garlic can also keep gums in excellent condition. When crushed or chopped, garlic produces the compound allicin. It has antiviral and antibacterial properties that remove the harmful bacteria in your mouth and can also reduce inflammation to ease irritated gums. 

3. Leafy Greens

Eating kale, spinach, and other leafy greens can benefit the body in many ways. When it comes to gum health, the vitamin C boost leafy greens provide helps strengthen the tissue to prevent bleeding when brushing and flossing. It also reduces inflammation to protect gums against gingivitis and periodontal disease. The excess chewing produces more saliva, washing away food particles clinging to the gum line.

In addition to eating healthy foods, scheduling regular dentist appointments with Gregory Sy, DDS & Associates is the best way to keep gums healthy and reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease. They will help evaluate your diet and target any habits that could be causing significant oral health conditions. Based in Amherst, OH, the dentist provides routine exams to assess oral health, periodontal disease treatment to prevent tooth loss, and teeth whitening to make sure patients in Lorain and the surrounding areas are proud of their smiles. To schedule an appointment, call (440) 282-9550 or leave a message online. Connect on Facebook, so you never miss a news alert.