Relation between ascorbic acid intake and periodontal disease in the United States.

Only a weak association between periodontal disease and ascorbic acid deficiency has been shown in the analysis of nutritional and periodontal health data collected from a representative sample of the US population. Intake of ascorbic acid in amounts larger than those recommended by the dietary standards does not seem to be associated with better periodontal health. The results of this study also suggest that dental practitioners are better advised to concentrate on plaque control rather than vitamin C supplements to prevent and control periodontal disease in their patients.