Periodontal Disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, affects many millions of Americans. While the symptoms of the disease in its early stages are easy to overlook, the progression of periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes. At the Shawnee, KS dental office of Richard Dervin, DDS, we believe in making our patients advocates for their own dental health so they can keep their teeth for a lifetime! This is why we just had to let our patients know about the exciting information released in a recent study from the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. According to Medical News Today: “...researchers from Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health found that dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) like fish oil, known to have anti-inflammatory properties, shows promise for the effective treatment and prevention of periodontitis.” To break this down, the good fat found in salmon, peanut butter, and nuts can actually help you prevent advancing periodontal disease! Now don't think that we are suggesting increased peanut butter sandwich consumption in place of flossing... Optimum oral hygiene habits including brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your Shawnee, KS dental office are a key component in keeping gum disease at bay. But now you know that taking a fish oil supplement, or choosing the salmon dish the next time you eat out can actually be beneficial to your oral health! Contact the Shawnee, KS dental office of Richard Dervin, DDS today to learn how we can advance your dental health and the beauty of your smile!