The sailor's disease is coming to Turkey!

Scurvy, caused by vitamin C deficiency and once common among sailors, is back on the agenda. Specialist Dentist Funda Özsarı, a member of the European Society of Cosmetic Dentistry, stated that the rise in scurvy cases in Turkey could have serious effects on dental health.

Özsarı emphasized that individuals with unbalanced diets and young people are at high risk for this disease, highlighting that healthy nutrition plays a critical role in gum and dental health.

"SCURVY IS NOT JUST A THING OF THE PAST, IT IS RE-EMERGING TODAY"

The expert drew attention to the effects of scurvy on dental health, stating, "Scurvy, a result of vitamin C deficiency, can cause serious problems such as bleeding gums, tooth loss, and gum recession. This disease was once common among sailors; their inability to consume fresh fruits and vegetables for long periods led to the disease. However, the increase in fast-food consumption and the reduced intake of fresh foods today have caused scurvy to come back to the agenda."

DO NOT NEGLECT VITAMIN C INTAKE FOR YOUR DENTAL HEALTH

Drawing attention to the harmful effects of scurvy on dental health, the specialist doctor states that vitamin C deficiency can weaken gums and lead to tooth loss. She warns, "Vitamin C deficiency can cause gums to become sensitive, bleed easily, and lose the supporting structures of the teeth. Therefore, to maintain a healthy oral structure, fresh vegetables and fruits should be consumed, and necessary vitamin intake should not be neglected."

PAY ATTENTION TO THE EARLY SYMPTOMS OF SCURVY

Stating that symptoms such as gum bleeding and sensitivity can be the first signs of scurvy, experts emphasize that these symptoms must be taken seriously. Özsarı warns, "If you experience gum bleeding while brushing your teeth or eating hard foods, this could be a sign of scurvy. If not intervened early, the situation can reach dimensions that could lead to tooth loss."

NUTRITION ADVICE FOR AESTHETIC AND HEALTHY SMILES AT EUROPEAN STANDARDS

Özsarı touched upon the importance of healthy and strong gums in cosmetic dentistry, stating that a balanced diet directly affects smile design. She explained, "Smile aesthetics are not just about white and straight teeth; they are also complemented by healthy gums. For this reason, foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges, kiwis, strawberries, and broccoli must be added to the diet for an aesthetic smile and a healthy oral structure."

PUBLIC AWARENESS AGAINST SCURVY NEEDS TO BE INCREASED

Stating that the resurgence of scurvy is worrying for public health, the expert points out that awareness needs to be raised on this issue. Özsarı warns, "It is very important for our public, especially young people, to attach importance to healthy nutrition and dental health. To prevent gum diseases, we must review our eating habits and have regular dental check-ups."