Periodontal health is affected by oral hygiene, genetic and epigenetic factors, systemic health - and nutrition. Periodontitis is a gum disease that weakens the gums’ hold on teeth and damages the bone that supports them. It starts when bacteria build up in the gum pockets, forming sticky biofilms that release chemicals that trigger the body’s immune system. The result is gum inflammation that, over time, can spread into the rest of the body. Left untreated, periodontitis may lead to tooth loss and can contribute to long-term health problems, including systemic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
In a recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology, individuals who follow a Mediterranean diet appear more likely to have better gum health. Researchers wanted to explore if people who follow a Mediterranean diet tend to have less gum disease and lower inflammation in their gums and body.
During the study, 195 patients participating in the King’s College London Oral, Dental, and Craniofacial Biobank study had a full gum exam to assess their gum disease severity, and gave a blood sample to measure inflammation markers. They also completed a questionnaire about their diet, to see how closely they followed a Mediterranean style of eating, which included intake of fruit, vegetables, nonrefined cereals, legumes, fish, meat, poultry, dairy, olive oil, and alcohol.
The results of the study showed that people who closely followed the Mediterranean diet were less likely to have severe periodontal disease and showed better periodontal measures, even after adjusting for good brushing habits, other diseases like diabetes or hypertension, and body mass index.
In contrast, participants who frequently consumed red meat and did not follow a Mediterranean pattern were more likely to have severe gum disease and higher systemic inflammation. The Mediterranean diet, already linked to lower risks of heart disease, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative conditions, appears to also benefit oral health by supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
“Our findings suggest that a balanced, Mediterranean-type diet could potentially reduce gum disease and systemic inflammation,” lead researcher Giuseppe Mainas, a postdoctoral researcher at King’s College London, said in a news release.
The Mediterranean diet focuses on green leafy vegetables, fish, grains, nuts, and seeds. It also involves limiting or avoiding highly processed foods and refined sugars and carbohydrates. It emphasizes omega-3s, vitamin C, polyphenols, fiber-rich foods and other known inflammation fighters. Various research studies suggest this diet has anti-inflammatory potential, and those who follow this eating program generally have lower incidences of inflammatory conditions.
One of the cornerstones of the Mediterranean diet is extra virgin olive oil, which is both the primary source of fat and a concentrated source of polyphenols, antioxidants, and healthy monounsaturated fats. These compounds directly contribute to oral health in several ways:
Anti-inflammatory power: Olive oil polyphenols, including oleocanthal, act in ways similar to anti-inflammatory medications, helping to reduce swelling and irritation in gum tissues.
Antioxidant protection: Free radical damage is a factor in gum disease progression. Olive oil’s antioxidants neutralize oxidative stress, protecting both gum tissue and bone.
Microbiome support: Some studies suggest olive oil can inhibit harmful bacteria while supporting beneficial ones, helping maintain a healthy oral microbiome and reducing biofilm buildup.
Systemic benefits that affect the mouth: By lowering cardiovascular risk factors, regulating blood sugar, and improving immune response, olive oil helps address systemic conditions that worsen periodontal disease.
Sticking to a Mediterranean diet may improve oral health by reducing inflammation and promoting a balanced oral microbiome, leading to better gum health and lower risk of periodontal diseases. This anti-inflammatory diet, rich in plant-based foods, whole grains, and healthy fats, counteracts systemic inflammation that can worsen oral conditions.
Remember, the Mediterranean Diet is not a replacement for good brushing, flossing, and dental visits, but could be a helpful piece of the bigger picture when caring for gum health.