Even though these are not prescribed medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies can have very real effects on your health.
The “4 G’s” (Ginger, Garlic, Gingko, and Ginseng) have the potential to increase bleeding by decreasing platelet aggregation in the blood when taken with the medication Coumadin (warfarin).hyscience.com
Feverfew, glucosamine, and green tea have been known to cause similar effects as well, in addition to a number of other commonly-used herbs and supplements.*
Ginseng is particularly important for your dental care provider to be aware of, for the potentially dangerous effects it may create when combined with regular use of aspirin and Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory drugs. *
Medications called biphosphonates (often prescribed for breast and prostate cancer, myleloma, and osteoporosis) have been linked to osteonecrosis of the jaw, which may arise and be worsened by insufficient vitamin D.
Inadequate vitamin D intake has been associated with poor periodontal (gum) health. Osteoporosis Canada has recently developed guidelines that recommend daily vitamin D supplements of 400 IU to 1,000 IU for adults under age 50. Having an adequate intake of vitamin D has also been linked to decreasing gum bleeding upon probing. In healthy patients over 50 years of age, one study determined that those who received 500mg of calcium as well as 700 IU of vitamin D per day showed a lower risk of tooth loss. A separate study found that patients who took the same amount of calcium but more than 400 IU of vitamin D per day had better oral health, including shallower probing depths, fewer bleeding sites, lower gingival index values and less attachment loss.
While many sources point toward the usefulness of vitamin therapy in increasing oral health, potential toxicity has been noted for certain vitamin uses. Using vitamin supplements to prevent deficiencies can often be overdone or based on inadequate scientific evidence of the long-term side effects of effectiveness of such treatment. For example, vitamin C has been promoted as a preventative and cure for periodontal disease without adequate scientific evidence to support this. * In fact, adverse secondary effects of certain vitamin utilization are well documented, and people should consult their physician or dentist when considering vitamin therapy to treat either a local or systemic health issue.
Some foods can have positive effects on oral health. For example, fatty fish and nuts can help protect people from gum disease. These are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which can make consumers 30% less likely to develop gingivitis and 20% less likely to develop periodontitis. Small and easy changes in your diet in this way may drastically improve the condition of your gums and teeth, improving overall well being as a result.