Avoiding Gum Disease And Halitosis With Sweet Alternatives

The fight against gum disease and halitosis is not as easy as it seems, as there are various factors that trigger the said conditions. The main culprit for the manifestation of these dental conditions is the sugar in foods and drinks. Dental bacteria feeds on the sugar and food debris left in the mouth, causing plaque and tartar. This is why it’s advised to avoid eating foods rich in sugar.

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 also help in preventing the bacteria Streptococcus mutans from adhering to the surface of the tooth. Bacteria needs to stick to the teeth to form plaque, where they begin to erode the tooth enamel. Sucrose, unlike the fructose and glucose in which raisins contain, are what constitutes 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.

Symptoms of gum disease include red and swollen gums that bleed easily, tooth sensitivity, spaces developing between teeth, pus between teeth, chronic halitosis, pain in the mouth, and changes to the bite of teeth. Plaque is the main cause of gum disease and halitosis, though other factors can speed up the process of gum degradation. These include smoking, a genetic predisposition, pregnancy, puberty, stress, poor diet, medications like anti-depressants, and oral contraceptives, grinding teeth at night, diabetes, and some other systemic diseases.

Having a good dental hygiene can be the best prevention against gum disease and halitosis. With routine brushing, flossing and use of mouthwash, you can keep oral bacteria under control as well as eradicate the threats of gum disease and halitosis from its true cause.