Sweet Foods Effective As Gum Disease And Halitosis Prevention
It may be difficult to prevent gum disease and halitosis, as there is a wide variety of factors that can give way to these conditions. The main cause of these conditions is the consumption of sugar. Oral bacteria feeds upon the sugars and food debris, causing plaque and tartar to form. Foods and drinks high in sugar content should be avoided or kept in track.
Fortunately, for people who have sweet cravings, there’s good news. Even though raisins are sweet and sticky, researchers at the University of Illinois in Chicago have discovered them to contain compounds which prevent gum disease and halitosis.
Raisins contain a number of constituents in raisins which take care of plaque-causing bacteria in the mouth. Some, namely oleanolic acid can be effective at killing oral bacteria. Others like oleanolic acid, oleanolic aldehyde, and 5-(hydroxy methyl)-2-furfural could reduce the capability of bacteria to grow. Specifically, they are effective against Streptococcus mutans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis.
Oleanolic acid is also effective at preventing the bacteria Streptococcus mutans from sticking to the surface of the tooth, The bacteria need to stick to the teeth to form plaque, after which they start eroding the tooth enamel. Sucrose, not the fructose and glucose that raisins have in them, are what creates the environment for gum disease and halitosis.
Another options, cranberries, also prevent bacteria (specifically Streptococcus mutans) from adhering to teeth, and developing gum disease and halitosis. Presently, there are many dental products and toothpastes that contain cranberry extract. Additionally, the British Dental Health Foundation is endorsing cranberry extracts and juice to avoid gum disease and halitosis, as well as other associated problems. However, due to the cranberry juice’s acidity, it is advisable to take it during mealtimes. Acidic food and drinks briefly soften the teeth enamel.
Gum disease symptoms include swollen red gums which bleed easily, tooth sensitivity, spaces forming between teeth, pus between teeth, incessant halitosis, mouth pains, and changes to the bite of teeth. The main cause of gum disease and halitosis is plaque although additional factors can speed up the process of gum degradation. Such factors are: smoking, genetic predisposition, pregnancy, puberty, stress, poor diet, medications such as anti-depressants and oral contraceptives, teeth grinding, diabetes, and some other systemic diseases.
Practicing proper oral hygiene is the best at home gum disease and halitosis remedy. Through everyday brushing, flossing and using mouthwash, you can stop the bacteria from taking over your dental health and eliminate gum disease and halitosis from the start.
