Nutritional Supplements :

When we look at the Role of Nutrition in Oral Health, there are certain basic nutritional elements which I believe are of great benefit to my patients. While I am specifically addressing these nutritional elements and their role in Holistic Dentistry, many of my patients who have taken these nutritional supplements also report the additional benefit of a greater sense of overall health and well-being.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

The Essential Fatty Acids are known as Omega 3, 6, and 9. The reason these are such important nutritional elements is because they are helpful in reducing inflammation in capillaries. Inflammation is a critical factor in periodontal disease, as well as other diseases.

Good sources for Omega 3, 6, and 9 are: Almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, and pistachios - these are all very high in these essential oils; also, cold water fish, such as cod, trout, and salmon - wild salmon, not farm salmon which contains added coloring. I tend to avoid fish with high levels of mercury, such as mackerel, swordfish, shark and albacore tuna.

My personal favorite choice of the Omega Oils is called "Udo's Choice," which can be purchased at Whole Foods Markets in the refrigerator section. It contains organic flax seed oil, borage oil, and evening primrose oil.

Vitamin C - Ascorbic Acid

Ascorbic Acid is well-known as a contributing factor in cellular health and the health of the gums. Many years ago, when sailors didn't have access to foods naturally high in Vitamin C, like fresh fruits and vegetables, there was a prevalence of scurvy - a connective tissue disease characterized by bleeding gums.

Co-Enzyme Q-10 (Co-Q-10)

Co-Q-10 helps reduce the growth of anaerobic bacteria found in gum pockets in periodontal disease. Co-Q-10 is the first coenzyme in the conversion of food to usable energy, so if we are deficient in that, our ability to produce energy will be hampered significantly. A runner, for example, who is running a marathon, can't go too fast all at once, but must pace themselves so the cells can break down fuel and use oxygen and Co-Q-10 to generate energy.

The best source of Co-Q-10 is organic apples eaten with the skin. You can also purchase Co-Q-10 in supplement form.

Mucopolysaccharides - Essential Carbohydrates

There is a group of nutrients known as mucopolysaccharides, or essential carbohydrates, which are involved in strengthening the patient's immune system, leaving them less susceptible to periodontal disease Essential for healthy immune system and cells, mucopolysaccharides are instrumental in improving the body's ability to fight inflammation in the mouth, and therefore directly impact periodontal health.

Good sources of mucopolysaccharides are shitake mushrooms, barley, oatmeal, seaweed, and goji berries. In Tibet, the goji berry is called the fountain of youth for all of its broad spectrum mucopolysaccharides.

Probiotics

Probiotics contain beneficial good bacteria which produce Vitamin K, which in turn helps in maintaining healthy gum tissue, not to mention other tissues in the body. The absence of Vitamin K can result in weak gum tissue, characterized by gums separating easily from the teeth. Gastroenterological experts agree that probiotics also aid good digestion and help to promote health.

Probiotics are especially essential when a patient has to take antibiotics - such as our patients who must pre-medicate prior to treatment, due to heart conditions such as mitral valve prolapse. While antibiotics have their time and place in a patient's health, they destroy both good and bad bacteria, which can give rise to a whole series of conditions. I believe it is definitely a good idea to take probiotics to replenish the good bacteria the patient's body needs to maintain a proper balance.

Good sources are yogurt with live, active cultures, or cultured probiotic supplements.

How an Alkaline versus Acidic pH Level in the Body Affects Gum Health

When our bodies are acidic, inflammation levels can rise, and promote gum disease. Therefore, a more alkaline body pH is optimum for healthy gums.

Our modern diet - heavy in hamburgers and fries, or proteins and oils - breaks down to create acidic blood pH. Even carbohydrates such as bread and pasta, once metabolized, break down into alkaline pH. On the other hand, when we eat vegetables, and fruits to a lesser extent, our body is better able to maintain a healthy alkaline pH, so a diet rich in vegetables and fruits is helpful in dental health.

For those interested in maintaining a healthy pH, there are also water alkalizers, and I personally use one. I encourage my patients who are interested to talk to someone knowledgeable about those products.

Call today for your complimentary consultation with Dr. Jacques: 310-826-1181.