Nutrition and Periodontal Disease… You Can Help Yourself!

According to the American Dental Association healthy gums and healthy eating often go hand in hand. About 70% of the population has some form of periodontal disease. Adequate nutrition, along with other contributing factors may determine how healthy the gum tissue is and how long you keep your teeth.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue and supporting bone that leads to tooth loss and possible other systemic health problems. Although the role of diet and nutritional factors and developing periodontal disease is unclear, it is known that the defense mechanisms of the gingival tissues and saliva can be affected by poor nutrition.

For example healthy gum tissue is usually able to resist the penetration of bacteria that leads to gingivitis. Deficiencies of vitamin C, folic acid, and zinc may increase the permeability of gingival tissues, making the tissue more susceptible to bacterial plaque.

The more plaque that is present the more inflammation occurs. Studies also show that patients who have inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin C are more susceptible to periodontal disease than patients who get adequate amounts either from food or supplements.

Nutritional status is also linked to immune response. When a periodontal infection is present the ability of oral tissues to utilize nutrients is altered, thus interfering with the body’s normal ability to heal itself. Oral health care professionals are in a position to identify possible nutritional deficiencies by looking for certain signs and symptoms in the mouth that include; red, inflamed and sore tongue, tingling or burning of the tongue, sores in the corners of the mouth, generalized redness of the gum tissues and bleeding gums in the absence of obvious periodontal disease.

Finally while undergoing periodontal treatment it is vital to have adequate amounts of vitamins A, C, zinc and protein to insure proper post operative healing.

Science shows that proper nutrition is just as important in the mouth as it is in the overall health of the body. Please call the office to learn more about nutrition and the prevention of periodontal disease. We are anxious to help you save your teeth and keep a healthy smile for a lifetime.

70% of Adults Have Gum Disease!

According to the American Dental Association healthy gums and healthy eating often go hand in hand. Adequate nutrition, along with other contributing factors may determine how healthy the gum tissue is and how long you keep your teeth.

Good Nutrition Can Help Prevent Periodontal Disease

Schedule Your Nutrition and Periodontics Consultation Today!