The Role of Nutritional Counseling in Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy
Nutrition plays a significant role in caries formation. However, the impact of nutrition on periodontal diseases also warrants clarification. Substantial scientific evidence supports the impact of nutrition in the growth, maintenance, and repair of the periodontium. Macronutrients and micronutrients play physiological roles in protecting the periodontium, and an imbalance of one or more nutrients can be a factor in the disruption of tissue integrity and immune response.1,2
Macronutrients
Proteins and carbohydrates are macronutrients that impact periodontal health and disease. Proteins serve as building blocks for the periodontium; they also help with tissue repair and wound healing and provide disease resistance.2-4 The destruction of alveolar bone tissue is a prominent feature of periodontal diseases. Sufficient protein intake is associated with higher bone mineral density and slower rates of bone loss, which supports periodontal healing.
Protein also has anabolic effects on bone. It may raise calcium absorption from the gut, increase bone mineralization, and improve periodontal outcomes in patients undergoing nonsurgical periodontal therapy.5,6
* References and figures can be found in the original article via the link above.
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