Poor Nutrition And Periodontal Disease

Diet plays an important role in a person’s overall wellness and oral health. Eating well and maintaining a healthy diet can help reduce your risk for developing many problems with your mouth, including periodontal diseases.

Vitamin C

According to the Institute of Medicine, the recommended dietary allowance for vitamin C is 60mg per day – or about one orange. Consuming less than 60mg can put you at slightly higher risk for developing certain types of periodontal diseases. The relationship between vitamin C and periodontal diseases in likely due to vitamin C’s role in maintaining and repairing healthy connective tissue along with its antioxidant properties. The American Dietetic Association recognizes that fruits such as oranges, melons, and berries are excellent sources of vitamin C.

Calcium

Getting enough calcium can also reduce your risk for developing periodontal diseases. The American Dietetic Association advises that adults should try to consume at least three servings of calcium each day. Good sources of calcium include dairy foods such as milk, yogurt, cheeses, dark green vegetables, fortified orange juice, as well as rice and beans. Consuming enough calcium can help build density in the alveolar (jaw) bone that supports the teeth. This is especially important in developing years.

Periodontal diseases can eventually break down and destroy the tissues and bone that support the teeth. However, with a diet high in calcium, the rest of the jaw-bone may not be at risk.

Individuals with osteoporosis, who are taking a class of drugs called bisphosphonates, should pay extra attention to the bone in their jaw. Recent research has indicated that certain osteoporosis drugs may be associated with bone necrosis (loss) in the jaw. Individuals taking these drugs have a slightly increased risk (1 chance in 100,000) of post-surgical complications. Information is still surfacing regarding this association, so if you are taking a drug for osteoporosis (Fosomax, Actonil, Boniva, etc.), or if you have been treated with the drugs Aredia or Zometa to treat high levels of calcium that often accompany complications related to bony metastases from cancer, be sure to discuss this with your Periodontist.

Vitamin D

Sometimes known as the “sunshine vitamin”, vitamin D can help slow bone absorption and lessen inflammation associated with periodontal diseases. Research shows that exposure to the sun can provide your required amount of vitamin D. Ten to fifteen minutes of sun exposure at least two times per week to the face, arms, hands or back can provide adequate vitamin D. People who live in an area with limited sun exposure may want to eat foods fortified with vitamin D such as mild, eggs, sardines, and tuna fish.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fish, tofu, and other forms of soybeans, canola, walnut, flaxseed, and their oils, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help decrease inflammation that is associated with periodontal diseases.

Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements can be an easy way for patients to obtain their recommended dietary allowance of different nutrients. But vitamins and dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition and proper oral care. Always consult with your physician before taking any kind of supplement.

WARNING: Did you know that Herbal Supplements can alter your ability to clot properly during surgical procedures? Studies show that it is critical that patients advise their health care professionals informed about any Herbal Drugs that they are taking so appropriate consideration of these products can be conducted prior to surgery. Please provide our staff with a detailed list of any Herbs that you take so we will be able to provide safe and predictable healthcare while you are a patient in our office.

 THE IMPORTANCE OF EATING A BALANCED DIET

Maintaining a balanced diet is an important part of achieving wellness. An unbalanced diet, often associated with obesity, may not include fruits and vegetables, which are good sources of valuable nutrients. Be wary of sugary drinks such as soft drinks and foods high in sugars, trans-fats, and sodium. Without proper nutrients the body can have a hard time fighting off infections such as periodontal diseases.