Benefits of Omega-3s on Teeth

You already know that good oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining the health of your teeth, but scientific research has started to uncover the importance of dietary choices in oral health too. It makes sense that your body needs essential vitamins and minerals in order to build and maintain healthy bones, teeth, and tissues, but there have also been surprising findings in the link between a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and overall dental health.

What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that the human body cannot synthesize on its own and therefore needs to acquire through food. There are three types of omega-3 fatty acids: ALA, DHA, and EPA. ALA is found in a variety of nuts and seeds while DHA and EPA are primarily found in fish such as salmon, anchovies, and tuna.

How Do Omega-3s Benefit Your Oral Health?

Studies have shown that omega-3s can drastically reduce the signs of periodontal disease. A diet rich in DHA and EPA omega-3s, whether through supplementation or as part of regular dietary choices, can help maintain gum health and keep teeth securely rooted, preventing tooth decay that can often form in the spaces between damaged gums and the tooth itself.

Omega-3s are well-known for their ability to reduce chronic inflammation and are used as a remedy for rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain, so it makes sense that the inflammation of the gums associated with periodontal disease is greatly reduced by taking an omega-3 supplement.

Getting Enough Omega-3s in Your Diet

Adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet is a good idea whether or not you have an existing periodontal condition. They are easy to include it in your daily routine. While omega-3s can be found in fish, such as sardines, herring, salmon, mackerel, and tuna, and they can also be consumed in the form of fish oil liquid or capsules.

High Point Family Dentistry understands the connection between your dental health and your overall health. We offer comprehensive and gentle care for the entire family and pride ourselves on providing you with the highest quality care.