Periodontal disease

• These treatments have side effects, such as dry mouth, the development of antimicrobial resistance and increased blood pressure.
• But research has indicated that a molecule called nitrate, which is found in leafy green vegetables, has fewer side effects and offers greater benefits for oral health.
• Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease, causing damage to the soft tissues and bones supporting the teeth.

Leafy greens may be the secret

• Leafy greens and root vegetables are bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants – and it’s no secret that a diet consisting of these vegetables is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight, boosting the immune system, and preventing heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
• The multiple health benefits of leafy greens are partly because spinach, lettuce and beetroots are brimming with nitrate, which can be reduced to nitric oxide by nitrate-reducing bacteria inside the mouth.
• However, in the mouth, it helps to prevent the overgrowth of bad bacteria and reduces oral acidity, both of which can cause gum disease and tooth decay.
• Antimicrobial resistance is a global health concern, predicted to cause 10 million deaths yearly by the year 2050.

In contrast, dietary nitrate is more targeted. Nitrate eliminates disease-associated bacteria, reduces oral acidity and creates a balanced oral microbiome. The oral microbiome refers to all the microorganisms in the mouth. Nitrate offers exciting potential as an oral health prebiotic, which can be used to prevent disease onset or limit disease progression.

How many leafy greens for pearly whites?

• As a rule of thumb, a generous helping of spinach, kale or beetroot at mealtimes contains about 6-10 mmol of nitrate and offers immediate health benefits.
• For example, consuming lettuce juice for two weeks reduced gum inflammation and increased healthy bacteria levels in patients with gum disease.

Mia Cousins Burleigh has previously received funding from The Royal Society of Edinburgh. Siobhan Paula Moran does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

• JM Dental of Westbury, located in Westbury, NY, is excited to welcome Dr. Alan Dorfman to join their practice.
• The practice's website is https://www.westburydentists.com
  WESTBURY, N.Y., Jan. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- JM Dental of Westbury, located in Westbury, NY, is excited to welcome Dr. Alan Dorfman to join their practice.
• As a quality general dentistry practice, JM Dental allows me to share my skills with the community and help patients maintain their oral health.
• After dental school, the doctor returned to Long Island to practice dentistry with his father, Dr. Earl Dorfman, at their Westbury office.

• SHAWNEE, Kan., Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- With the combined expertise of Dr. Bhavin "Bob" Parbhu and Dr. Arti Parbhu, Capstone Dentistry transcends traditional dentistry.
• Find Local Doctors provides a trusted online directory, helping patients easily locate qualified and reputable physicians and dentists in their area.
• The practice believes dental care should be accessible to everyone, and for those without insurance, they offer dental membership plan options.
• Located in the heart of Shawnee, Capstone Dentistry represents more than just a dental clinic; it's a legacy of passion and dedication.

• As a result, seniors must either pay for dental services completely out-of-pocket or try to find a Medicare supplement that provides high-quality, affordable and accessible dental care.
• "We see the challenges seniors face in this situation, which is one reason why we offer our dental membership plans," commented Dr. Jay Patel, who practices at Midtown Family Dentistry of Dallas.
• Other facts to know about the savings plan at Midtown Family Dentistry of Dallas include:
  Between 2 dental examinations and cleanings per year included at a fixed cost per month.
• Those interested in learning more should feel free to contact Midtown Family Dentistry of Dallas on their website or by calling the office at (469) 780-7844.