Coffee Could Lower Risk of Gum Disease, Reseachers Say
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iStock/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) — Need another reason to drink coffee? It may be good for your gums.
Nathan Ng of Boston University’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine says this finding contradicts previous research suggesting the drink might have a detrimental effect on periodontal health.
Ng and his team examined the dental records of 1,150 veterans over a 30-year period, taking into account various factors including coffee drinking, smoking, alcohol use, body mass index, and dental habits.
According to the study’s lead author, coffee “may have protective effects against periodontal disease” at least in men, keeping the gums stronger to prevent tooth loss.
The researchers said they would like the study expanded to the general population to determine if coffee similarly benefits women’s gums.
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