Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. It involves bacterial infections that damage the gums and surrounding tissue. According to the University of Maryland Medical center, 70 percent of all tooth losses result from periodontal disease. Several factors are involved, including include genetics, dental hygiene, nutrition and certain autoimmune or systemic disorders, although they don't all necessarily apply in all cases. Some supplements may help, but periodontal disease should always be professionally treated in order to minimize tooth and bone loss.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
An animal study published in July 2006 in the "Journal of Dental Research" suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may eventually be proven to be useful in the fight against the bone loss seen in advanced gum disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are currently used for indications from arthritis to schizophrenia. Many people do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diets. The richest dietary sources are fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon and lake trout, but fish oil is a good substitute for those who do not eat much fish. More research is needed before omega-3 fatty acids can be widely recommended for dental health.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10, often abbreviated as CoQ10, naturally occurs in the cells of the human body. This substance, a powerful antioxidant, is both consumed through food sources and created in the body. CoQ10 helps convert carbohydrates and fats into energy. Research has demonstrated that patients with periodontal disease have lower levels of CoQ10 in their gums, suggesting that systemic deficiency of CoQ10 may contribute to periodontitis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, results from several small studies have demonstrated that CoQ10 supplements may help with gum healing and tissue repair. Like any other supplement, CoQ10 has the potential to interact with medications. Consult a qualified health care provider before using it to treat any condition.
Vitamin D and Calcium
A study from the Saint Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education and published in September 2010 in the "Journal of Periodontology" found that patients in a periodontal maintenance program who took both vitamin D and calcium had better periodontal health than patients who didn't take those supplements. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, vitamin D is necessary for optimal calcium absorption. Calcium, the most common mineral found in the body, is essential for maintaining healthy bones. Consult your dentist for more information on the role of calcium and vitamin D in periodontal health.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center: Vitamin D
- Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center: Calcium
- "Journal of Periodontology"; One-Year Effect of Vitamin D and Calcium Supplementation on Chronic Periodontitis"; M.N. Garcia et al; Sept. 2010
- "Journal of Dental Research"; Omega-3 Fatty Acid Effect on Alveolar Bone Loss in Rats; L. Kesavalu et al; July 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Coenzyme Q10
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Periodontal Diseases
