Coenzyme Q10 is a compound similar to vitamins that is naturally produced by the body. Coenzyme Q10 plays a role in several important biochemical processes throughout the body, and coenzyme Q10 supplements are taken to treat a variety of different diseases, including gum disease. Up to this point, only small-scale trials have evaluated coenzyme Q10 for treating gum disease, so conclusive evidence of it effectiveness is still lacking. As with any health supplement, you should consult your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10.
Coenzyme Q10 Levels
Several studies, such as one published in the October 1971 issue of the "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences," have found that coenzyme Q10 amounts decreased in the gum tissue of patients with gum diseases such as gingivitis. These studies suggest a correlation between coenzyme Q10 levels and gum disease.
Coenzyme Q10 Mouthwash
Because of the link between coenzyme Q10 levels in gum tissue and gum disease, several small studies have examined mouthwashes containing coenzyme Q10 for treating gum disease. Preliminary data suggest that coenzyme Q10 mouthwash can increase tissue repair and lead to faster healing in patients with gum disease, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results in larger controlled clinical studies.
Coenzyme Q10 Supplements
Coenzyme Q10 can also be taken as pills that increase the total amount of coenzyme Q10 in the body. Similar to mouthwashes, treatment with coenzyme Q10 has shown promising results in preliminary studies, leading to reduced gum disease symptoms. Again, additional large-scale, well-controlled studies are needed to validate these findings.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for treating gum disease with coenzyme Q10 mouthwashes is to rinse with five milliliters, or approximately 1 tsp., one to two times per day. For coenzyme Q10 supplements, the recommended dose to treat gum disease is 50 mg twice per day.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Coenzyme Q10
- "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences"; "Deficiency of Coenzyme Q10 in Gingival Tissue from Patients with Periodontal Disease"; Gian Paolo Littarru et al; October 1971
- Vitamins-Supplements.org: Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone, Vitamin Q)
- MedlinePlus: Coenzyme Q10
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