The Role of Antioxidants in Gum Health

Posted on 9/2/2024 by Scholes Periodontics & Implants

a close up of healthy gums and pearly teeth

Adding antioxidants to your daily routine can promote healthy gums. Antioxidants are substances that prevent or slow cell damage. Let us look at how these key nutrients keep your gums in good condition.

Antioxidants Reduce Inflammation

Inflammation occurs when your body responds to harmful things like infections or injuries. Bacteria on your teeth cause swelling in your gums, also called gingivitis. This can make your gums sore, puffy, and red. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E and beta carotene fight inflammation. They also encourage collagen growth. Collagen provides strength and flexibility to gums. The antioxidant selenium has been shown to decrease gum bleeding.

Antioxidants Boost Immunity

Gum disease occurs when the immune system cannot properly fight off bacteria. This leads to infected, inflamed gums. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E energize your immune cells. This supports your body to combat bacteria and viruses. The mineral zinc also improves immunity against gum infections.

Antioxidants Counteract Free Radicals

Your body makes free radicals during normal processes like digestion. Too many free radicals cause cell damage, known as oxidative stress. This stress is connected to various gum problems like gingivitis, periodontitis, and receding gums. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals. This protects your gums from oxidative damage. The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin are especially good for gum tissue.

Get Antioxidants From Your Diet

A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy oils can provide antioxidants. Some antioxidant-rich foods are citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens like spinach, nuts like almonds and walnuts, olive oil, green tea, beans, and cocoa.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

While helpful, antioxidants alone cannot treat existing gum disease. Maintain your oral hygiene routine by regularly brushing, flossing, and cleaning professionally. Seeing your dentist every six months allows early detection of problems.

With good nutrition and oral care, antioxidants can support healthy, inflammation-free gums. Contact us if you have any questions about protecting your gums.

Scholes Periodontics & Implants in Chandler, AZ

Scholes Periodontics & Implants
Dr. Scholes
595 N Dobson Rd B#34
Chandler, AZ 85224

O: (602) 900-1609
F: (480) 786-5694

Hours:
Monday: 9AM–3PM
Tuesday: 7AM–4:30PM
Wednesday: 7AM–4PM
Thursday: 7AM–4PM
Friday: 7AM–1PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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Dental Blog | Chandler, AZ | Scholes Periodontics & Implants
Visit Our Dental Blog. Scholes Periodontics & Implants, in Chandler AZ, Specializes in Healthy Gums, Dental Implants, and Great Smiles. 602.900.1609. Call Us Today!
Scholes Periodontics and Implants, 595 N Dobson Rd #34
Chandler, AZ 85224 / (602) 900-1609 / scholesperio.com / 10/12/2024 / Associated Words: Dental Implants Chandler AZ /