Mediterranean diet for oral health? New research backs its gum disease-preventive properties

People practicing a diet “close to the Mediterranean diet” have a higher chance of better gum health, with potentially lower gum disease and inflammation, according to a new Kings College London, UK, study. 

Conversely, those not following this type of eating pattern were more likely to have more severe gum disease, especially if they consumed red meat frequently.

These dental patients tended to have higher levels of circulating inflammatory markers, such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP), note the researchers.

“Our findings suggest that a balanced, Mediterranean-type diet could potentially reduce gum disease and systemic inflammation,” says study first author Dr. Giuseppe Mainas, a postdoctoral researcher.

“We observed that there may be a connection between periodontal disease severity, diet, and inflammation. These aspects should be holistically considered when assessing the treatment for periodontitis in patients.”

Growing body of research

The study evaluated 200 hospital patients enrolled in the King’s College London Oral, Dental, and Craniofacial Biobank. The researchers performed dental exams and took blood samples while collecting data about participants’ diets through questionnaires.

Study participants whose diets were rich in plant-based foods that align with the Mediterranean diet — including legumes, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil — had lower levels of various inflammatory markers.

Previous research has linked a Mediterranean diet to a lower risk of developing major diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and certain cancers.

This year, the market saw activity around supplements inspired by the diet. Emulating the lifestyle in its botanical-based product development, ACI Group introduced two ingredients — Hytolive, an olive extract rich in Hydroxytyrosol, and Vintera, a grape extract packed with polyphenols.

Substantial evidence shows that diet might play a role in human health by affecting the immune system and moderating inflammation. This depends on the composition of molecules in the diet, which include macronutrients, micronutrients and phytochemicals. Plant-based diets can contain more of these molecules which can lead to lower inflammation.

“Our research offers an important starting point that can lead to more research to better understand the relationship between food intake and gum disease,” Maianas concludes.

The findings are published in the Journal of Periodontology.