An easy way to keep your gums healthy

Figures show you’re likely to experience gum disease at least once in your life. It’s caused by a build-up of plaque, which irritates the gums.¹ Early-stage gum disease is known as gingivitis and if left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis (serious inflammation of the gums). This affects the tissues that hold your teeth in place, and if it gets worse, it can lead to tooth loss.

Making sure you brush and floss your teeth regularly is the first step to protecting yourself against gum disease. Regular check-ups with your dentist can also keep an eye on your gum health. You could also try taking a gum-friendly supplement. In 1974, American researchers found that those with gum disease have low levels of the nutrient coenzyme Q10 – called co-Q10 – in their gum tissue, compared to those with healthy gums.²

Co-Q10 is found in every cell of your body. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells against free-radical damage, and plays a vital role in energy metabolism, producing energy in your cells’ mitochondria, the body’s energy ‘factories’.³ As we age, our levels of co-Q10 naturally decline. Although co-Q10 is found in foods such meat, fish and wholegrains, levels are much lower than those found in supplements; you would need to eat a lot more to obtain the same amount.

In 2014, Indian researchers discovered that a supplement can increase the concentration of co-Q10 in diseased gum tissue, and help suppress inflammation.⁴ It’s also been found that applying co-Q10 to the gums may be effective when used alongside other treatments.⁵ Meanwhile, further research looked at co-Q10 as a dietary supplement in patients with chronic periodontitis.⁶ One group took a supplement, while a second group took a placebo. After four months, those taking co-Q10 had improved symptoms of gum disease and faster healing.