With an estimated 75% of adults suffering from some sort of gum disease, it is certainly time to bring dental health out of the surgery and into the every day lives of people. While a good standard of oral hygiene is important, it is not the only factor which determines the well-being of teeth and gums, and gingivitis has numerous causes.

The consumption of foods that are high in sugars and acids has significantly raised susceptibility to gum disease because the bacteria which cause gingivitis flourish in an acidic environment. Indeed, dentists of today see more and more children with oral soft tissue problems as the diet of the average child becomes sweeter.

Badly shaped restorations, such as fillings and crowns, can also contribute adversely to oral hygiene. If these are not completely smooth, they serve as traps for food and bacteria which can rapidly spread to cause a full-blown periodontal problem. In cases like these, dentists will remove the poorly fitting filling or veneer, replace it, and prescribe medication to rectify the diseased gums.

In order to reverse the effects of poor hygiene or a sugary diet, however, changes to food intake, along with maintaining a good standard of oral hygiene, will often suffice. It has been proven that people whose diet is deficient in Vitamin C suffer from a higher rate of periodontal disease, and that eating food rich in this nutrient can help to fight afflictions of the gums.

Drinking fruit and vegetable juices is a good way to increase Vitamin C intake with minimal fuss. In liquid form, fresh produce is easier and faster to consume, and can be taken in higher doses. Consider, for example, the time it takes to eat five oranges and compare with the time it takes to drink a glass of juice. In short, Vitamin C ensures strong healthy gums and drinking fresh fruit juice allows the body quick, easy access to the nutrients.