Many people consider cavities or dental caries as the most common dental problems they have encountered. Cavities are caused by relentless consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods like those containing refined sugars and starches. The particles of these foods which get stuck in-between the teeth and the crevices of the gums become food for bacteria. In addition, they also mix with saliva, forming acid that can damage the enamel of the tooth. The formation of cavities in teeth can be controlled with the avoidance of refined carbohydrate foods in the diet. It is essential to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables to get the essential vitamins and minerals needed for strong bones and teeth and avoid periodontal disease.
In order to stop the onset of any gum disease, there is a need to properly clean the mouth after eating. This includes brushing both gums and teeth as well as flossing in-between them with the use of dental floss especially after meals. Cavities are considered major defects of the teeth when you have dental disease, which is a condition known as periodontitis. This accounts for the loss of more teeth.
Periodontitis is an inflammation of the gums as well as the bones surrounding the teeth and acts as support to the teeth. In some cases, the disease goes together with mouth and upper respiratory tract infections. At other times, this may be caused by poorly fitted dentures, improper construction of fillings, inadequate diet, and improper cleansing of teeth and gums. This condition starts as gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease. The symptoms are characterized as reddish, swollen, and bleeding gums.
If left untreated, gingivitis can result to pyorrhea, which is characterized by inflammation of the gums accompanied by a continuous discharge of pus. With this, the gums start to recede and eventually, the individual starts to lose his teeth, hence the need for periodontal disease treatment. Natural cure such as vitamins and minerals are vital for the growth and development of teeth, as well as considered proper for health. That’s why; an adequate intake of vitamin C is a must for the prevention of pyorrhea and gingivitis. Vitamin A also helps for the development and overall health of the gums. If this vitamin is lacking in the diet, the gums are readily prone to infection. This vitamin is also necessary for the formation of tooth in kids as well as for its maintenance. Minerals that are needed for healthy teeth are potassium, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and iron.
Balanced diet consisting of fresh fruits, meat and fish, green leafy vegetables, and whole-grain bread provide the teeth and gums with essential vitamins and minerals considered best for dental health.