Anticaries, good for gums … foods that protect teeth

Our diet affects our oral health. "If we suffer from vitamin and mineral deficiencies, the body responds less well to bacteriasays Dr. Selena Toma, doctor of dental surgery. Oral diseases, ie caries or periodontal diseases (which affect the gums and bones) are mainly related to the action of these bad bacteria. Studies have shown that supplementing deficient patients can reduce the duration of the disease and the impact it has on the tissues."A balanced diet helps maintain healthy teeth.

If we are all concerned, some populations must be particularly vigilant about the content of their plate. This is the case, for example, of smokers who are more likely to be deficient in vitamin C, a vitamin that plays an essential role in the synthesis of collagen, and which protects the tissues of the gums. Elderly people who often suffer from poor chewing absorb vitamins less well. Gluten-free diet, vegetarian ... beware of the risk of deficiencies when you have a restrictive diet. For example, people on a protein diet often suffer from halitosis, which is bad breath. "Periodontal bacteria, those that cause tooth decay, use the amino acids contained in the meat as a nutrient, note the specialist. This can induce gingival or periodontal diseases."Overview of protective foods.

Good foods for the gums

Foods rich in vitamin D. Vitamins D and E are important for the gums. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency, a common deficiency in Northern Europe, is linked to a higher incidence of periodontal disease. "Vitamin D has an influence on bone metabolism on the one hand and on immunity on the other hand, decrypts the dentist. It is the conjuncture of these two factors that will precipitate the appearance of periodontal diseases."It is especially the solar exposure which allows the synthesis of vitamin D. At the level of the plate, one can force on the eggs, the fish type sardines, mackerel, herring, salmon, or the butter.

Foods rich in vitamin C. Despite its image of seafarers' disease, scurvy is on the rise again. 10% of the population is deficient in vitamin C, with the main culprit a diet more and more transformed. In smokers, we even reach 30%. Vitamin C plays on the synthesis of collagen. A deficiency causes relaxation in the gums, bacteria can slip into them and form periodontal pockets. If you want to fill up with vitamin C, be careful not to rush on citrus, often very acidic. "The acidity contained in orange or lemon causes enamel demineralization, says Dr. Selena Toma. It is advisable to vary the sources for better absorptionThink of vegetables rich in vitamin C: peppers, parsley, broccoli and strawberries, provided of course that they are not drowned in a thick layer of sugar.

Foods rich in omega 3. Dental loosening causes an inflammatory reaction. Omega 3 help to return to balance. "Studies have shown that adding omega 3 as an adjunct to periodontitis helps to recover more quickly"says the dentist The right plate: oily fish like salmon or sardines, linseed oil, hemp seeds ...

Foods that strengthen tooth enamel

Dental enamel is a mineralized tissue. He needs minerals such as calcium and phosphorus to strengthen himself. The right choice: fill up on calcium, with dairy products, but also kale, tinned sardines. Increase your phosphorus intake with cheese, giblets, nuts, fish, meat and eggs.

Anti caries foods

When decay occurs, bacteria feed on sugar and make acids that destroy enamel and dentin. The best remedy is simply water. "The fact of drinking water regularly during the day, allows to have a salivation more importantsays Dr. Selena Toma. Saliva is an important tool against cavities. It contains natural defense substances."Remember to have a glass of water after a meal, or after eating sweet.By the plate, bet on high fiber foods (white beans, artichokes, oats ).They require longer chewing, the production of saliva is more important and plays a protective role.

Foods good for the jaw

Dentists warn: be careful not to give purees to the youngest as soon as they are old enough to eat pieces and subject to the agreement of the pediatrician. "Chewing promotes jaw expansionsays the doctor in dental surgery. It is also very important for the balance between the upper jaw and the lower jaw. This may later lead to maxillary malpositions (retrognasia or retromandibulia)."In children under 7 years, beware of all chopped, mixed, soft and unctuous foods and prefer more consistent products.

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