Impact Of N-3 Status On Periodontitis: A Literature Review

Abstract

This paper reviews etiology and clinical manifestations of periodontitis. Biosynthesis of omega-3 fatty acids and their effect on immunity and inflammatory processes in the host is also discussed. In periodontitis, bacteria and their byproducts initiate an inflammatory response.1 Details follow on the mechanisms of the onset and resolution phase of inflammation. Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs) are lipid mediators enzymatically derived from essential omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids that have been found to resolve inflammation, enhance host defense, and stimulate tissue regeneration.2 There is a growing body of research on the impact of n-3 status on periodontitis, including investigations on the correlation of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to periodontitis,3,4 effect of n-3 supplementation from a clinical perspective,5,6 and treatment of periodontitis with n-3 supplementation and aspirin.7,8 There is a need for expanded research to confirm the effects of n-3 status on clinical outcomes of periodontitis and regenerative periodontal tissues, in particular studies with larger sample sizes and longer durations.9 Consensus on the relationship between periodontitis and dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids will improve understanding of this field of research. Dental professionals should educate patients on increasing n-3 intake to manage periodontitis and overall health.10