Diet & Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a serious and prevalent condition, affecting roughly 80 percent of adults. (See References 1) Left untreated, early stages of the disease---characterized by gum inflammation and oral bleeding---can advance to more chronic levels, resulting in bone decay, loss of connective tissue and even the removal of teeth. Though periodontal disease results from a number of lifestyle and genetic factors, diet plays an important role in its progression and prevention.

Calcium

• Calcium has strong associations with oral health, and a calcium-rich diet can help combat periodontal disease. In July 2000, the Journal of Peridontology published a study that revealed that consuming low levels of dietary calcium causes periodontal disease to progress more rapidly and severely. In examining the link between calcium and gum disease, Michael P. Rethman---the president of the American Academy of Peridontology---states that calcium helps strengthen bone mass beneath the gum line, minimizing bone decay from bacteria. When it comes to managing periodontal disease, eating calcium-rich foods such as dairy, leafy green vegetables and fortified foods can guard your mouth against bone loss.

Dairy

• In addition to being an excellent source of calcium, dairy may offer other benefits in warding off periodontal disease. A study conducted in Hisayama, Japan, and published in the July 2002 issue of the Journal of Periodontology found that people with periodontal disease experienced better oral health when they consumed cultured dairy products---particularly yogurt and kefir---on a regular basis. The researchers speculate that the lactic acid in these foods kills harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to less microbial activity in the "periodontal pockets" that form between teeth and gum tissue. Eating dairy products that have live cultures, such as yogurt, can help keep periodontal disease in check.

Whole Grains

• Along with benefiting your overall health, whole grains may also play a preventative role in periodontal disease. A study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in June 2006 revealed a link between consumption of whole-grain foods and lowered risk of periodontitis---an advanced form of periodontal disease. (See References 3) Whole grains can reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the mouth and gums, which may lessen the symptoms of periodontal disease. To benefit from these anti-inflammatory properties, consume several servings of whole grain foods per day, such as oatmeal, wheat germ, dark breads, bran and brown rice.

Vitamin C

• Vitamin C does more than ward off scurvy: it also protects against periodontal disease. By aiding in the repair of the body's connective tissues, Vitamin C helps reduce the periodontal pockets that harbor harmful bacteria, keeping periodontal disease from progressing. The anti-inflammatory properties of Vitamin C can also alleviate symptoms in people with periodontal disease. Foods with high concentrations of Vitamin C include oranges, papaya, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli and cauliflower.

Sticky Food

• In some cases, the impact of diet on periodontal disease starts as soon as you chew. Sticky foods---including fruit rolls, raisins, dried fruit, taffy and soft candy---can cling to spaces between the teeth and under the gum line, worsening gum inflammation and contributing to plaque buildup. If you consume these foods, brush and floss afterward to remove any residue from your teeth.

Considerations

• While a nutritious diet high in calcium, whole grains and Vitamin C can help protect against periodontal disease, diligent hygiene is also important. To prevent or reverse periodontal disease, brush and floss daily---and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings.