Study: omega-3 plus low-dose aspirin after deep cleaning matched antibiotics for severe gum disease
In a year-long randomised, double-blind trial by researchers in Brazil and at Harvard, 109 people with advanced gum disease all had deep cleaning, then took different add-on treatments. With 3g of omega-3 a day plus low-dose aspirin for six months, 57.7% reached the treatment target, close to 58% with antibiotics and well above 23.1% on placebo. The study is in the Journal of Periodontology.
What it means for you
This could one day mean fewer antibiotics for gum disease, but the trial was small and needs confirming in wider groups. Aspirin carries bleeding risks: do not self-medicate; talk to your dentist and doctor.
Editors' take: the background
Gum disease (periodontitis) is long-term inflammation of the gums and the bone that holds teeth, triggered by bacteria. Treatment centres on deep cleaning to remove tartar and bacteria from the root surfaces; some severe cases also get antibiotics.
This trial tried calming the body's inflammation rather than killing bacteria, which could one day mean fewer antibiotics. But it involved only 109 people over one year, and larger studies are needed before treatment changes.
Key points
- Deep cleaning remains the core of gum disease treatment
- Add-on medicines are for your dentist and doctor to decide; do not self-medicate with aspirin
- Only 109 participants: early evidence
Source: Journal of Periodontology (via ScienceDaily)
This is a news summary written by our editors, not medical advice. Please refer to the original source and seek professional advice for your own situation.
Questions readers ask
I have gum disease. Can I take fish oil and aspirin myself?
Not on your own. Aspirin raises bleeding risk and can interact with other medicines; talk to your dentist and doctor first.
What are the common signs of gum disease?
Bleeding when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, and teeth that look longer or feel loose are common warning signs. Get checked early.
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