AILMENTS & THERAPYS

Tooth and Gum Disorders

The primary dental problem in the United States is cavities, known more formally as dental caries. Cavities are typically caused by the persistent eating of refined sugars and starches. These elements mix with saliva to create an acid that erodes the tooth enamel.

Fortunately, cavities can be easily controlled. Pro-active steps include:

• Avoid eating refined foods
• Eat a nutritionally balanced diet. Include fresh juices that are rich in vitamin C.
• Properly cleanse the teeth, such as brushing and flossing. See more on this below.

Although cavities are a significant medical ailment, the condition known as periodontitis actually accounts for the loss of more teeth than cavities.

Periodontitis is an inflammation of the gums and bones that support the teeth. One of the major causes of this is a poor diet. Other reasons include poor fillings, poorly fitting dentures and simple inadequate cleansing of teeth.

In other words, people who do not eat well, or brush their teeth regularly suffer from this affliction, also simply known as bloody gums. The early stages are known as gingivitis, which is when the gums redden, swell and tend to bleed.

Left untreated this inflammation is accompanied by a discharge of pus, gum recession and the loosening of teeth. The easiest way to keep your teeth healthy and to stay out of the dentist's office is to eat properly.

Vitamins and minerals are essential to dental health, especially vitamin C. Signs of bloody gums or gingivitis typically mean that the body is not getting enough vitamin C. How can you increase your vitamin C intake? Juice drinks in the morning with grapefruit, oranges, pineapple and strawberries. (See more juice recipes)

Grapefruit tend to be in season in the winter. Pineapples and berries are in season in the summer. If you buy the fruit in season, they are typically less expensive.

These items contain lots of vitamin C, as well as bioflavenoids. As an alternative to juicing, eat kiwi or mangos.

Although all vitamins and minerals are essential for the proper formation and continued health of teeth, an adequate intake of vitamin C is crucial. If you have bleeding gums, chances are your vitamin C intake is too low.

Gingivitis and pyorrhea cause teeth to loosen and break down. A proper diet is one of the major culprits behind these afflictions.

Minerals important for healthy teeth are sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium.

A broad diet that includes fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables and whole grain bread will supply the teeth and gums with not only these elements, but also fantastic exercise for dental health.

Another hint - tooth disorders also should be supplemented with calcium. A great source of calcium are legumes, like black beans. Another nice way to add calcium to your diet is by eating fresh yogurt.

Calcium supplements? Good vitamins for dental health are calcium supplements.