Newsletter - October 2015
Which supplements may offer oral health benefits?
Calcium and Xylitol are among the popular supplements that may offer oral health benefits.
- Calcium which is a mineral helps you maintain strong bones and teeth. Calcium deficiencies have been linked to gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
- Xylitol is used as a sweetener in many sugar free products like gum and candy, and it may help minimize plaque and salivary levels, as well as decrease caries. (However, xylitol is considered toxic for some animals, so keep xylitol-sweetened products away from your household pets.)
In addition, vitamins A, C, and E may offer benefits for gum healing.
Are there risks to taking dietary supplements?
Some dietary supplements can increase the risk of bleeding or, if you take them before or after surgery, can effect your response to anesthesia. Dietary supplements also can interact with certain prescription drugs. For example, vitamin K can reduce the ability of blood thinners to prevent your blood from clotting, and St. John's wort can speed the breakdown of many drugs (including antidepressants and birth control pills), reducing their effectiveness.
Talking to Dr. Bui about supplements
Nearly 70 percent of patients do not discuss their dietary supplement use with their health care providers which puts them at risk for adverse side effects. Since some dietary supplements may interfere with the treatment or medications prescribed by your dentist, you should tell Dr. Bui if you are taking dietary supplements to avoid unwanted interactions.
For more information about dietary supplements, talk to Dr. Bui at your next dental visit.
Have a great day!