Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly are two of the best ways to care for your teeth and gums. But your oral health isn’t only influenced by what happens in the bathroom mirror. What you eat can also play an important role in keeping your gums healthy. Certain vitamins and minerals support your body’s ability to maintain healthy gum tissue, fight inflammation, and protect your mouth from problems such as gum disease.

Here are seven nutrients worth including in a balanced diet to help support your gum health.

If you’re the parent or guardian of a younger child, one of your greatest responsibilities is helping to ensure they learn positive habits, including a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine, to help them grow into the happiest, healthiest version of themselves.

But whether it’s because they don’t enjoy the sensation of a toothbrush or string floss or they simply resist anything that feels like a chore, many kids struggle with maintaining their smiles. Continue reading to learn more about how you can encourage them to clean their mouths twice daily to prevent potential problems!