Periodontal disease and nutrition: Separating the evidence from current fads

It is reasonable to consume a nutritionally adequate diet to help maintain host resistance and to maintain the integrity of the periodontal tissues. A good diet contributes to both good general health and good oral health. We should try to eat, and also recommend to our patients, a diet that focuses on reducing our intake of refined carbohydrates and includes eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables and dietary sources of calcium. There is, however, insufficient evidence to justify treatment with vitamin and mineral supplementation in the adequately nourished individual. Periodontal disease is an infectious disease that can be treated and prevented by the elimination of dental plaque in the adequately nourished individual. However, it may be reasonable to suggest a vitamin and/or mineral supplement for patients whose nutrition might be inadequate. Future research should focus on an evaluation of which foods and nutrients may help to prevent the onset and the progression of oral diseases.