In our continuing conversation with Dr. Doug Thompson, we explore nutrition as a complex yet vital component of oral and systemic health. This segment will offer Dr. Thompson's practical and simplified dietary recommendations and examine the role of supplements, prebiotics, and probiotics in supporting a healthy oral microbiome and overall patient well-being.
Key takeaways
Assessing patient nutrition comes with challenges
It is difficult to get a precise measure of a patient's nutritional intake during a standard dental visit, and current tests for nutrient deficiencies are often not comprehensive enough.
“Most dental professionals talk to patients about diet, mainly focusing on kids and sugar. But for periodontal disease, that is not the same answer. There, I'm more concerned about macro- and micronutrients and antioxidant intake."
General healthy dietary advice is essential
Since exact measurement is difficult, encourage general healthy eating. A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in plants, healthy fats, and clean, minimally processed proteins, is a good guideline. Even some plant intake is better than none.
Supplements can support treatment
While not a standalone solution, specific multivitamins or supplements can aid healing and gum health, especially for patients undergoing periodontal therapy or those with suspected deficiencies. They serve as an add-on to core treatment.
Probiotics and prebiotics are promising, but still developing
Prebiotics nourish beneficial organisms, while probiotics introduce them. However, Dr. Thompson stresses that oral probiotics are currently adjuncts for mechanical and medicinal treatments, not replacements. Their full reliability and integration into standard protocols are still evolving.
Prioritise simple treatment protocols for best results
To improve patient compliance and manage costs, it is best to begin with a proven, base treatment protocol. Supplements or probiotics can then be added as needed, without overcomplicating the early stages of therapy.
Up next: Module 3 Overview