Periodontal disease or periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease.  Periodontitis is very common, especially in older adults. Symptoms associated with this form of gum disease include inflammation and redness of the gingiva. The gums may also bleed when brushing the teeth. Advanced periodontal disease may cause affected teeth to become loose in their sockets. Rarely severe, untreated periodontitis may lead to tooth loss.

What is Coenzyme Q10?

Coenzyme Q10 (coq10) is a fat-soluble substance the body produces naturally. Normally found in high concentrations in the heart, liver and kidneys, coq10 is a potent antioxidant. It also plays a key role in the production of energy in cells and can help convert nutrients extracted from food into energy in the body. Deficiency of coenzyme Q10 is very rare.

Are there Coenzyme Q10 supplements?

Supplemental coq10 may be used for a variety of disorders. These include angina, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, gingivitis, periodontitis, Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease. Studies indicate that periodontal disease sufferers have a lower concentration of coq10 in their gum tissues than their healthy counterparts.

Coenzyme Q10 and Periodontitis

The management of periodontitis depends on the severity and extent of the disease. Treatment may include oral hygiene education, professional plaque and calculus removal. In severe cases, minor surgery may be required to open and clean deep pockets in the gums or to support loose teeth.

How is Coenzyme Q10 administered?

Administration of coq10 for periodontal disease is typically both local and oral. Toothpastes with added coenzyme Q10 are widely available and may be applied directly onto affected gums. Oral supplementation for gum disease generally ranges from 100-200mg a day. Since coq10 is fat-soluble, it is best absorbed when taken with food. The substance is typically well tolerated with very few side effects. These include gastrointestinal upset and loss of appetite.

The future of Coenzyme Q10

More studies are needed to establish clear treatment guidelines regarding the optimum form and dose of coenzyme Q10 for periodontal disease.  A number of clinical studies have shown that patients with periodontitis, who have been treated with coenzyme Q10, together with traditional therapeutic interventions, have experienced quicker tissue repair and faster healing. There appears to be a therapeutic benefit in the inclusion of coenzyme Q10 to the treatment regimen of periodontal disease sufferers.