A study published in the November issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that eating moderate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids seemed beneficial in preventing gum disease. The American Heart Association recommends eating fatty fish at least twice a week. So it appears that omega-3 is a good idea for heart and gum health.
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar along the gum line of teeth. The bacteria of plaque release toxins which cause inflammation, the body's attempt to heal and repair itself. This chronic inflammation causes decay in the surrounding gum and bone causing pockets or cavities. About half of the adult population over 35 years of age experiences gingivitis, an infection limited to the gums, while 10-20 percent experience the more advanced form of periodontal disease effecting the gum and bone called periodontitis.
The usual treatment of periodontal disease is good home care involving daily brushing and flossing with supportive professional care by the dentist to remove the hard deposits of tartar and applying local antibiotics to kill the bacteria. This study supports incorporating fish into one's diet for the anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 to limit the destruction of gum and bone as a result of periodontitis. Dietary sources of omega-3 are sardines, herring, salmon, along with walnuts and flax seed. For more information on periodontitis and the relation to heart health, refer to my September 29, 2010 blog post or visit www.dulski.com/gum-disease.html.
Tags: Prevention of Gum Disease, Periodontitis, Periodontal Disease, Treatment of Periodontal Disease
Dental exams showed participants in the middle and upper third for omega-3 fatty acid consumption were between 23 percent and 30 percent less likely to have gum disease than those who consumed the least amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include sardines, mackerel and swordfish, along with some nuts and seeds such as walnuts and flax seed.
ReplyDeleteFor those of us concerned about toxicity in fish, research shows taking fish oil supplement on a daily basis is an excellent alternative. Especially for those of us who plan to stay active our whole lifetime - whether out walking, raking leaves, cleaning house, or keeping up with the kids.
ReplyDeleteThe next best source of omega-3 fatty acids is hemp powder. The organic/natural foods section of your local grocery store is sure to have this, along with great, easy ways to incorporate this wonderful ingredient into your foods for the day.
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar along the gum line of teeth. Our dentist offer non surgical gum therapy to the patients suffering from such dental issues. Dr. Amin may prescribe specific medications to be applied at the site of the accumulated bacteria, or advise additional procedures such as curettage and root-planing.
ReplyDeleteNo matter how well you maintain your oral hygiene, gum diseases still can have adverse effects on your oral health. Gum diseases (periodontal diseases) gradually affect your overall oral health
ReplyDeleteNon-Surgical Gum Therapy Hamilton
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe negative effects of periodontal or gum diseases are not limited to the mouth. It has been observed that such diseases are equally harmful for rest of the body, making it absolutely necessary to keep a keen eye on your gum health.
ReplyDeleteNon-Surgical Gum Therapy