Diet versus jaw bones: Lessons from experimental models and potential clinical implications.

Area of Science:

• Oral Biology
• Nutritional Science
• Bone Physiology

Background:

• Dietary habits influence systemic health and bone remodeling.
• Nutritional components directly impact the microarchitecture of maxillary and mandibular alveolar bone.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on the influence of diet and supplementation on alveolar bone.
• To identify knowledge gaps regarding specific nutrients and dietary patterns.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of experimental models and existing research.
• Focus on studies investigating the effects of various dietary components on alveolar bone.

Main Results:

• High-carbohydrate and high-fat diets demonstrate detrimental effects on alveolar bone.
• Calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and bioactive compounds show protective effects.
• Limited data exists on protein-rich/free diets, boron, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and caffeine.

Conclusions:

• Nutritional components play a substantial role in alveolar bone health, supported by animal models.
• Adipokines and direct cellular effects are proposed mechanisms linking diet and bone.
• Findings provide a foundation for clinical studies on nutritional interventions for alveolar bone disorders.