Why Should You Avoid Spicy Food When Having Gum Problems

We all love a little spice in our lives, chilli peppers and other ground spices introduce flavour to an otherwise boring plate of food and are usually irresistible. The initial reaction to spicy food is ordinarily harmless and many have no reason to complain but if any sort of gum problems are present in the oral cavity then it’s a different story.

Gum issues exist in many forms and can be extremely uncomfortable and painful in most conditions, such patients are already very well aware of how problematic spicy food can be when ingested in this state. For such patients who visit dental professionals with this sort of pain, sedation dentistry can provide them with painless treatment options; it is advised, however, to seek expert help as early as possible to minimize experiencing dental pain of any sort.

Amidst the burning tongue, runny nose, red eyes and sore lips the after-effects of spice exposure bring about, eyebrows have been raised on what harm it can do to existing gum problems.

To learn more about gum issues and the effect of spicy food on oral tissues continue reading for further information.

What is a Gum Problem?

Gums, also known as gingival tissues are soft, usually pink tissues present around teeth and also below them. They are supplied extensively by blood vessels and play many different roles. From protecting the bone, harbouring good bacteria, and providing a cushioned layer against friction when talking and eating, they must remain healthy for good oral health. Common gum conditions that may present themselves are as follow:

1. Gingivitis: this is an inflammation of the gums around the neck of teeth and between teeth. Gums may appear swollen and bleed easily when pricked.
2. Periodontitis: This is inflammation that results in bone destruction as well and creates numerous negative effects such as gum recession, bad breath, and loose teeth if not treated.
3. Trauma and lacerations include trauma to the gums caused by sharp objects, chemicals, and even poor oral habits such as smoking.

Other Gum Affected Problems

Oral mucosal conditions such as dry mouth, oral submucous fibrosis, ulcers and burning mouth syndrome are important to mention to your dental health professional in a consultation. It is likely that discomfort from any one of these conditions urged dental care.

What does Spicy Food do to Healthy Gums?

The main culprit in spice is capsaicin, which comes from chili peppers. We’ve all felt a chilli burn before, but what is felt on the tongue or skin is only the most apparent response to capsaicin, some physiological changes that are occurring simultaneously include:

1. A Chain Reaction: Caspaicin’s contact with oral tissues causes a chain reaction.

• First, it causes direct heat stimulation in the mouth when ingested.
• This seemingly innocent reaction can lead to the sensitivity of the layer within the teeth known as dentine.
• Lastly, a temperature change occurs that if not sustained, can damage oral tissues, particularly the gums.

2. Inflammation: Studies have shown that capsaicin causes an inflammatory response on gingival tissues (gums) and initiates traumatic stimulation of the exposed nerves.
3. Possibly related to Cancer: Researchers have been studying the effect of spice on mice and there is reason to be concerned that it may be a potential chemical that promotes cancer production, also known as a co-carcinogen.

Avoiding Spicy Food Having Gum Problems

After discussing the effects of capsaicin on healthy gums and oral tissues, it can rationally be concluded that unhealthy gums have a different threat level. The reasons for this are:

• Spicy food has been known to exacerbate and worsen already existing periodontitis. Remembering that periodontitis is inflammation that affects gum, bone and eventually teeth, the harmful effect of spice is important to take note of. The worsening of such a condition means more discomfort, more pain and more damage; some of which can be irreversible.
• Knowing that spicy food causes inflammation, gum conditions that have ongoing inflammation will be exposed to more inflammation. This causes the destruction of oral tissues and will worsen any such gum problem. Healing can be delayed and the present condition would in that case be unnecessarily prolonged.
• Oral conditions such as dry mouth, ulcers and those listed earlier, can prove to be extremely painful when subjected to spicy food. In some cases, allowing the spicy sensation to reduce on its own is not enough and ultimately requires intervention by a dental practitioner for relief.

Is This Important for Me?

With new data and studies coming in every day, it is best to be aware of potential links and concerns that dental health experts are bringing to light. It is crucial to keep in mind, that if a gum problem already exists without treatment or management, it probably isn’t a good idea to cause any further damage or create complications. For the best advice, please consult a dental health expert for guidance and oral care options.

What can I do and change?

Understandably, you may not want to get rid of spice altogether, especially if you are accustomed to having it everywhere. As all health experts will remind you, being cautious is the preferred way to go and fundamentally translates into taking care of your oral health. Here are a few suggestions to get to the spice-free journey:

• Try reducing your spice, little by little instead of cutting it out completely at once.
• Look for alternatives for capsaicin, other types of spices may help broaden the spice spectrum and reduce the need for chilli.
• Get your gum problems treated and managed to improve your oral health and consult with a dentist on the amount of chilli that would be safest for you.

Goodbye to Spiciness!

There is no doubt that flavour is important but it goes without saying; your oral health is even more important. Taking timely responsible actions benefiting your health in a long-term manner is of paramount importance to continue a healthy life. With new treatment options, customized management regimens in place, care and support are well within reach. Being aware of possible harmful agents is the first step to better health. Whether you choose to omit spicy food from the menu or wish to enjoy it from time to time knowing its effects is step one. Consider scheduling a consultation with a dental health expert for any related concerns; spicy or not!

by Dr. Hanaa Nasir

Dr. Hanaa Nasir is a dental professional, currently pursuing her Masters in Oral Surgery. She has worked for a recognized dental hospital in Pakistan and is in the process of attaining her further education in Australia. Still in the early process of her research based on Psychology and Dentistry, she aims to advocate for dental care to be integrated with mental health. Dr. Nasir dedicates most of her time to science and medicine, and balancing them with her passions – poetry and art.

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