Close-up of woman smiling

The risk for gum disease is reduced by eating less sugar along with proper brushing, flossing, and professional tooth cleaning. Are there supplements that can help reduce the risk? CoQ10 has been proposed but the research on its benefits for gum health, when taken as a pill, are not yet convincing. In an article entitled "Effect of oral administration involving a probiotic strain of Lactobacillus reuteri on pro-inflammatory cytokine response in patients with chronic periodontitis," Adult patients with moderate chronic periodontitis were given probiotic tablets containing L. reuteri strain and compared to a group that was not treated. After completion of the therapy with probiotic tablets, 75% of the patients had a decrease in levels of inflammatory chemicals and also had an improvement in clinical signs.

Another good way to reduce the risk for gum disease is to visit your dentist and get a custom tooth tray made, and then apply hydrogen peroxide gel to the tray and then place it in the mouth for 10 to 15 minutes once a day or every other day. The hydrogen peroxide is thus able to reach the deep pockets of the gum and kill bacteria, thus reducing plaque formation. It can also help whiten teeth. Read more about gum disease.

Disclaimer: People should be taking the least amount of prescription drugs that provide adequate treatment, and to regularly monitor and review what is being taken and how much. This applies to most supplements, too. Please do not make any changes in your treatment without first discussing it with your health care provider. Statements made, or products sold through this website, have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Some articles contain affiliate links.