Periodontist in Chicago Encourages Adequate Intake of Vitamins and Minerals For Healthier Smiles
Friday, February 12th, 2010Good nutrition cannot be stressed enough. Consistent adherence to well-balanced meals does not only decrease your risks for chronic health conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, obesity and heart disease but it also significantly decreases your chances of having gum diseases. Periodontist Chicago encourages sufficient daily intake of vitamins and minerals to regain and maintain overall oral health.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are thought to weaken the immune system that protects your body from the damaging effects of the gum disease-causing bacteria. Once the efficiency of your immune bacteria declines, you are more likely to suffer from periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontitis is the inflammation and destruction of the structures surrounding and supporting your teeth.
Two of the most important nutrients for oral health are calcium and vitamin C. Calcium is the main supportive element of the alveolar bone that supports the teeth, keeping it strong. According to researchers, men and women who take less than 500 mg of calcium a day, or about less than 50% of the recommended daily allowance, are twice as likely to develop gum diseases.
Vitamin C, a natural antioxidant, is a valuable nutrient for healthier teeth and gums. Aside from protecting your body from the damages of free radicals, vitamin C is essential in the synthesis of collagen, the chief protein in connective tissues. Research shows that individuals who consume less than 60 mg of vitamin C a day, the RDA for vitamin C, are 1.5 times more likely to develop severe inflammation of the gums, or gingivitis, than those who consume 180 mg of vitamin C a day. Gingivitis is manifested by swelling, pain and bleeding of the gums.
To regain and maintain healthier smiles, it is recommended to eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin C. Milk, dairy products, leafy vegetables, fish and beans are good sources of calcium. Vitamin C can be obtained from broccoli, strawberries, kale, cantaloupes, kiwifruit, oranges and papayas. It is also recommended to increase your intake of water, which can greatly help in keeping moisture in your mouth. Dry mouths and mucus membranes are a good environment for growth of bacteria that cause gum disease.
In addition to good nutrition, individuals should maintain constantly maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent the development of gum diseases. Periodontist Chicago recommends regular visits to your dentist to monitor your overall oral health.
For a healthier smile, you can visit Dr. Marcus on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com or you can call him at (312)263-6898. Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist in Chicago but a highly qualified general dentist who treats gum diseases with a laser, and not a scalpel.


