Omega-3s prevent but cannot cure gum disease, bad breath

Dental researchers recently associated increased omega-3 consumption with a lower risk of developing gum disease and, by extension, gingivitis-related halitosis. However, experts say that there is currently no way to totally prevent gum disease. With that in mind, treating gum disease and the bad breath it causes will always be a part of good dental hygiene.

Gingivitis is an infection of the gums that can cause redness and sensitivity. More severe forms of the disease may manifest as swollen gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing. At its worst, gingivitis can cause periodontitis, a serious oral condition in which the gums pull back from the teeth and grow large pockets of infection. Gingivitis can lead to tooth loss.

One sign of gum disease is bad breath. Gingivitis can make it difficult to thoroughly clean the mouth, since gum sensitivity may prevent firm scrubbing of the teeth with a toothbrush. This pattern can lead to plaque buildup between the teeth, which oral bacteria feed on. These bacteria release pungent compounds as a byproduct of their digestion, leaving the mouth reeking of bad breath.

Omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent gingivitis, but brushing the teeth twice a day and rinsing the mouth with a specialty breath freshener can clean away plaque and eliminate the odors associated with halitosis.