Nutrition
Consuming the right amount of important nutrients not only decreases the risk of developing diabetes and heart disease; a proper diet can also benefit your oral health. A diet low in essential nutrients makes it difficult for the body to fight infection. Periodontal disease is a serious infection. Consequently, a poor diet can worsen the condition of the gums.
A study featured in the Journal of Periodontology revealed that a daily consumption of dairy products, such as cheese, milk or yogurt may decrease the risk of developing gum disease.
Calcium is also an important nutrient that is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. Research indicates that consuming less than the recommended 60 mg of calcium per day puts one at a risk for developing gingivitis, the mild form of periodontal disease.
Other recommendations to help you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile
- Drink plenty of water. It’s important for warding off decay and periodontal disease.
- Brush and floss after eating sticky foods.
Obesity
Obesity, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity or smoking, can also put one at risk for periodontal disease. Persons with a higher BMI (body mass index) produce cytokines, which are hormone-like proteins. Cytokines cause systemic inflammation and insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas and is essential for helping the body utilize glucose, a type of sugar that is the body’s main source of energy. Insulin resistance occurs when the body produces insulin, but fails to use it correctly. As insulin resistance increases, periodontal tooth attachment loss increases. The ongoing release of cytokines associated with periodontal infection contributes to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance increases the risk of developing diabetes. Periodontal infection in combination with obesity can contribute to Type 2 diabetes and the complications associated with the disease. A healthy diet and lifestyle along with proper oral hygiene is important for maintaining oral health.
Click here for more information on the relationship between nutrition and periodontal disease from the American Academy of Periodontology.
Click here for more information on the relationship between obesity and periodontal disease from the American Academy of Periodontology.