Periodontal disease affects millions of American adults every year. What begins as a reversible condition can turn into a destructive disease that eats away at the soft and hard tissues of the mouth and affect other aspects of a person’s health.
Good oral hygiene, visiting the dentist regularly, drinking plenty of water, and eating healthy are four key components to avoiding periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). To add another layer of protection to your teeth, gums, and jawbone, here are seven supplements to improve gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal disease:
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C has recently become very popular for skincare because it aids in the production of collagen, which keeps skin from sagging. For the same reason, vitamin C benefits gum health. A vitamin C deficiency may make the gums weaker and more vulnerable to disease-causing bacteria.
By taking a vitamin C supplement, patients with gum disease may also experience reduced symptoms.
2. B Vitamins
Folate, B12, and other complex B vitamins are associated with healthier gums. One study in Japan concluded that increased intake of folic acid improved gingival health. Another study found that B12 deficiencies in children increase the risk of cavities and poor gum health.
Rather than taking a supplement, some people opt to improve their diets by eating foods that contain high levels of B vitamins, such as:
- Liver
- Seafood
- Poultry
- Eggs
- Legumes
- Leafy greens
- Seeds
3. CoQ10
Our bodies naturally produce Coenzyme Q10 in the cells. It is stored in the mitochondria for energy. CoQ10 protects cells from disease-causing bacteria and viruses. Unfortunately, this production decreases with age, making people more vulnerable to disease and sickness.
Taking CoQ10 supplements will reduce gum inflammation and help the body fight off periodontal disease bacteria.
4. Zinc
Zinc, which is found in protein-rich foods, grains, and spinach, has an antioxidant effect on the gums. In fact, low levels of zinc can worsen periodontal disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.
5. Green Tea
Another simple way to improve gum health is to sip on green tea throughout the day. Green tea in any form fights against inflammation and bacterial growth. Some scientists believe that green tea could eventually be a first treatment for periodontal disease, though there isn’t enough evidence to support that just yet.
6. Melatonin
That supplement that so many people take to make them fall asleep? It actually does so much more! Melatonin is a hormone that affects your immune system function, blood pressure regulation, and oral health. Some studies show that people with severe periodontal disease often have low levels of melatonin.
7. Curcumin
Found in turmeric, curcumin has incredible anti-inflammatory effects that benefit gum health. By diminishing bacterial growth, curcumin reduces bleeding and inflamed gums. A study by Clinical and Experimental Dental Research concluded that people who took 80mg of curcumin a day for 4 weeks experienced decreased periodontal inflammation and bleeding.
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Manhattan
If you’re already suffering from gum disease, you aren’t alone. The key to healing is immediate dental care. At Modern Dental of Manhattan, our team uses conservative and effective treatments to eradicate periodontal disease. For severe cases, we offer professional intervention to keep it from progressing and restorative treatments to undo the damage caused by periodontitis.
To learn more about our practice and periodontal disease treatments, contact us today at (212) 758-1000.