3 Surprising Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy (page 2 of 2)

Advertisement
 
Gingivitis, a very common condition that causes the gums to redden, swell, and bleed, is typically caused by the gradual buildup of plaque. Treatment requires good dental hygiene and removal of plaque by a dentist or dental hygienist. Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis -- an advanced infection of the gums that causes teeth to loosen and fall out. There may even be more serious consequences of gum disease. Studies have shown a link between poor oral health and heart disease. Bleeding gums apparently provide an entry port for bacteria or viruses that can cause heart problems. Women with tooth or gum problems are also more likely to give birth to premature babies.

Bleeding gums may also be a sign that your intake of vitamin C is deficient. Be sure that your diet includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables every day; munching on hard, fibrous foods, such as a celery stick or carrot, stimulates the gums.

3. Helpful foods. You can protect your teeth by concluding meals with foods that do not promote cavities and may even prevent them. For instance, aged cheeses help prevent cavities if consumed at the end of a meal. Chewing sugarless gum stimulates the flow of saliva, which decreases acid and flushes out food particles. Rinsing your mouth and brushing your teeth after eating are important strategies to prevent cavities. Here are some tips:

Consume Plenty Of
  • Calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese.
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables for vitamins A and C, and for chewing in order to promote healthy gums.
  • Tea, which is a good source of fluoride.
Limit
  • Dried fruits and other sticky foods that lodge between the teeth.
Avoid
  • Sweet drinks and snacks.
  • Steady sipping of acidic drinks for prolonged periods.
From Foods That Harm, Foods That Heal
 
Must Read Should Everyone Read This? Yes! I vote for this story
Share Your Comments
Post a Comment
 
Remaining Character Count:
 
That's a heap of good advice. If you have braces, flossing is especially important. That's why some smart people somewhere invented the Platypus, which is available at www.platypusco.com

By bracedwonder, on 07/27/2009
http://www.gigharborsmiles.com/

By GigHarborDentis, on 05/30/2009
Brush twice a day. Floss daily. Reduce your sugar intake. http://www.gigharborsmiles.com/

By GigHarborDentis, on 05/30/2009
See All Comments

Advertisement
 

Get It Through E-mail

Get info and tips you can really use!
Sign up to receive the This Week@RD newsletter.


Advertisement

Digg

Popular stories from the source site rd.com sorted by diggs
Powered by Digg's Users