Periodontal disease, or gum disease, affects more than half of the adults in the United States of America. It is the leading cause of adult tooth loss, and has been associated with an increased risk for potentially-fatal systemic disorders, including stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Although gum disease is treatable, it is hard to detect and nearly impossible to treat without professional dental care. In Australia, researchers are exploring the possibility that fish oil may prove beneficial as an adjunct therapy option for gum disease. Prosper dentist Dr. Newton discusses this hypothesis.
A Safe and Natural Treatment Option
Fish oil has long been recommended by physicians for health benefits beyond teeth and gums. Aside from boosting heart health, the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are also beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis, depression, and more. A major benefit of fish oil is that there is no danger in consuming large amounts of it. Extremely high levels of fish oil may lead to delayed clotting times and potential gastric upset. If you are currently on medication therapy, especially blood-thinning medications, then you should consult with your physician.
Potential of Fish Oil
To determine the efficacy of fish oil supplementation as an adjunct therapy for gum disease, Dr. Alison Coates from the University of South Australia and colleagues from the School of Dentistry at University of Adelaide in Australia reviewed unique health studies involving humans. All eight of the studies they reviewed showed improvement, but the two most scientifically-significant studies involved a combination of fish oil and aspirin. Evidence is being built to support fish oil as effective against periodontal disease, but more well-designed studies are required to evaluate the supplement alone and in conjunction with other medications, such as aspirin. A clinical trial is already underway in Australia.
While fish oil may not yet be a definitive treatment against gum disease, your Celina and Prosper dentist can screen for gum disease and treat it at its earliest stages to help prevent permanent damage to your oral health. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Newton at our Celina dentist office, contact us at (214) 851-0130. We serve patients of all ages from Celina, Prosper, McKinney, Frisco, Anna, Pilot Point, and the surrounding areas.
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