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What’s good for your heart is also good for your gums, agrees Juliette Reeves, a dental hygienist and clinical nutritionist who specialises in dental health (Perio-Nutrition). “Most of us know sugar can cause dental caries but evidence shows diet influences gum health too. Along with good oral hygiene, a Mediterranean-style diet is one of the simplest ways to protect your mouth – and your long-term health.” First, what exactly is gum disease? And how worried should we be about protecting our gums? Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that affects more than 45 per cent of UK adults. Left untreated, it can cause swollen, bleeding gums, tooth loss, and increase the risk of chronic ill health. The problem starts with bacterial plaque – the sticky film that forms on teeth – but how severe it becomes depends on your body’s immune response. Genetics play a part, but diet, exercise, obesity, smoking and alcohol are major influences too.
