Welcome to the Elite Dental Aesthetics blog. I am Dr. Travis Adams.
Research published in the journal Nutrition has linked diets high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) with a lower risk of gum disease. One widely cited study found that people whose diets were rich in PUFAs were as much as 30 percent less likely to have gum disease than those who ate little or none of this type of fat.
Understanding the Gum Disease Connection
Gum disease is one of the most common dental conditions we see. When gum tissue pulls back from a tooth, it forms a pocket that provides a warm, moist environment for bacteria to thrive. Left untreated, that bacterial buildup can progress to periodontitis, putting both the teeth and the surrounding jawbone at risk. During routine dental examinations, we measure gumline pockets and examine all teeth for early signs of gum disease so we can intervene before it advances.
Foods Rich in PUFAs
Foods rich in PUFAs include salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel, sardines, and herring. Oils high in PUFAs include safflower oil, soybean oil, corn oil, and sunflower oil. Nuts and seeds like almonds, pine nuts, walnuts, pecans, brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and flax seeds are also good sources.
Not everyone regularly eats mackerel or herring, but incorporating more of these foods, or simply adding a handful of walnuts or a fillet of salmon to your week, may be worth considering for more than one reason. These foods carry a range of nutritional benefits beyond their potential connection to gum health.
Diet Is a Complement to Care, Not a Replacement
It’s important to understand that diet alone will not treat or prevent gum disease. However, a diet rich in PUFAs may be a helpful addition to your overall oral health routine alongside consistent brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings.
If you haven’t been to your family dentist in a while, we encourage you to schedule an examination and cleaning. We are currently accepting new patients at Elite Dental Aesthetics.
Contact Elite Dental Aesthetics:
775-200-1956
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
85 Foothill Rd Ste 2 Reno, NV
Reno, Nevada
89511