I have previously discussed in this post http://blog.teethremoval.com/omega-3-fatty-acids-inversely-proportional-to-periodontitis/ that you should be taking omega 3 fatty acids such as fish oil regularly. This is because omega 3 fatty acids have been found to be inversely associated with periodontitis which is inflammation of the tissue surrounding the teeth.
Recently researchers in Australia reviewed evidence from eight unique studies that involved humans to evaluate whether fish oil supplementation could be an adjunct therapy for periodontitis.
Their review of these studies showed that improvements in clinical measures were common in all studies, but were scientifically significant in two that used a combination of fish oil and aspirin. Although not conclusive, intake of fish oil is recommended for health benefits which extend beyond just your teeth.
Dr. Alison Coates from the University of South Australia says:
“I would recommend that people ensure they have a sufficient intake of long chain omega-3 fatty acids in their diet for general health. In Australia, these types of fatty acids are considered to be essential with ~500 mg recommended as the suggested dietary target. This equates to approximately 2 fatty fish meals per week.”
Dr. Coates and her colleagues say the the evidence for fish oil being effective in reducing periodontal symptoms is building but that more well designed studies that evaluate fish oil both alone and in combination with aspirin are needed.Further, it is important that compliance to treatment is considered and that the dose and length of supplementation is appropriate.
In Australia clinical trial is investigating the effects of fish oil as adjunct therapy for periodontitis.
1 thought on “Fish Oil to Help Periodontal Disease”