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The Role of Nutrition In Maintaining Dental Health As We Age

Eating healthy is the foundation of oral health for older adults. It won’t undo decades of damage, but it can prevent further decline, improve gum health, reduce inflammation, support healing, and improve quality of life.

Here’s a breakdown of what can and can’t be reversed through good nutrition after age 50, and where it helps most.

What Good Nutrition Can Improve or Support

Good nutrition supports gum health and prevents gingivitis and mild gum disease.
Gum disease may be reversible with proper nutrition, hygiene, and dental professional care.

Nutrients That Help Improve Bone Health and Prevent Tooth Loss

• Vitamin C to promote gum healing and reduce inflammation.
• Omega 3 fatty acids may reduce periodontal inflammation.
• Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables to help repair gum tissue.
• Bone loss can be slowed or stabilized but not reversed.

Key Nutrients That Help With Early Signs of Jaw Bone Loss

• Calcium and Vitamin D to strengthen the jawbone.
• Magnesium and Phosphorus to help mineralize bone and teeth.

What Good Nutrition Cannot Reverse

• Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
• Tooth Loss
• Worn or damaged enamel

What Good Nutrition Can Do

• Support Dental Treatment
• Reduce Inflammation
• Slow Progression

Healing After Dental Work

Better nutrition fosters better healing after dental procedures. Protein, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C are crucial for tissue repair after extractions, implants, or periodontal treatments.

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Online Information Sources: ada.org, nidcr.nih.gov, cdc.gov/oralhealth,eatright.org, hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource, nutrition.gov, nia.nih.gov, mayoclinic.org