Healthy living
Healthy eating
Dairy goodness for gums
Gum disease is a major cause of adult tooth loss, but a new study suggests that including dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt in your diet could significantly improve the health of your gums
The study, published in the Journal of Periodontology, looked at 942 men and women aged between 40 and 79. The participants were examined for symptoms of gum disease and asked questions about their dietary habits.
The team found that those people who routinely consumed dairy products were much less likely to suffer from periodontal disease than those who did not.
Dairy products are known to help in the fight against tooth decay because they neutralize the acids in the mouth; however it is less clear why they are effective against gum disease. One theory is that the lactic acid found in foods such as milk and yoghurt may have antibacterial properties and help reduce the inflammation and bleeding of the gums.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is more than just about keeping a perfect smile. Previous research has linked gum disease to a number of health problems including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and osteoporosis. 'Research has suggested that periodontal disease may affect overall health,' said study author Dr. Yoshihiro Shimazaki of Kyushu University in Fukuoka, Japan. 'This study reinforces what much of the public already knows - the importance of dairy in helping achieve a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy mouth.'
Gum disease is generally associated with poor oral hygiene – if the teeth are not cleaned properly then plaque, which is mixture of bacteria, food debris and mucus, builds up and irritates the gums. The gums become swollen, sore and may bleed when they are brushed. The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis and, left untreated, this may develop into periodontal disease. Surprisingly more teeth are lost through periodontal disease than through tooth decay.
So what is the secret to holding on to a brilliant smile into our senior years?
'As we get older the gums naturally shrink down and this makes it even more important to maintain good oral hygiene,' says Karen Coates, dental advisor at the British Dental Health Foundation. 'We recommend brushing the teeth twice a day for two minutes with a good fluoride toothpaste. Use a medium texture toothbrush and don't scrub too hard as this can damage the gums. It is also important to make regular visits to your dentist or hygienist.'
Useful articles
Useful Saga link
Information on this site is for interest only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should consult your own doctor about any specific health concerns.