Periodontal disease is the inflammation of the gum (gingivitis) and support structure of the tooth.  In mild cases, gums that bleed easily may be the only sign of a problem.  In severe cases the gums are inflamed and receding and teeth loosen and become abscessed.  Chronic bad breath is a sign of poor hygiene and often correlates with periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease can be caused by poor hygiene, nutritional deficiencies, stress, toxin overload, medications and hormonal changes.

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria produce acid that erodes the teeth.  It does not cause toothache or temperature sensitivity until the decay affects the nerve in the centre of the tooth.  Besides bacterial presence, tooth decay will only occur if the enamel is vulnerable and sugars are available for the bacteria to feed on.

Periodontal disease and tooth decay can be prevented with the proper diet and hygiene.  Proper dental hygiene includes regular tooth brushing and flossing.  Make sure to use a soft bristled toothbrush to prevent damaging tooth enamel.  Gargle with salt water to ease dental pain and purify the mouth.  Topical clove oil is analgesic when used on the teeth and gums.  Goldenseal, sage and thyme can be made into teas and used as an antibacterial mouthwash.

Stress can be a contributing factor to gingivitis and tooth decay.  It decreases the immune system and may lead to increased bacteria in the mouth.  We often eat poorly and crave sugar and junk foods during stressful times, which can also contribute to dental problems.

A diet high in raw fruits and vegetables provides a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.  Raw crunchy foods, like apples and carrots, clean the teeth as you chew.  Unsweetened cranberry juice has been studied for its plaque fighting properties and may one day be added into toothpaste.

Avoid all refined sugars, sticky foods, smoking, carbonated beverages and chewable vitamin C tablets.

Fluoride has been added to drinking water and dental hygiene products.  It is believed to strengthen the tooth enamel and increase resistance to decay.  Many dentists recommend fluoride treatments for children.  It is becoming a controversial practice because fluoride supplementation may cause poor bone quality and be a carcinogen.  Consumers should think carefully about using these products.

The sugar xylitol has been studied for its antibacterial properties.  Studies show that consuming this sugar changes the bacterial flora of the mouth.  The bacteria produce less acid and therefore cause less tooth decay.  In Finland, dental care for children is based on using xylitol. Xylitol can be purchased for use in baking or found in gums and mints.  It is a natural sweetener and its only side effect is that it can cause diarrhea in a small number of individuals.

The following list of supplements can be used for treating periodontal disease and tooth decay.  Adult doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).