Researchers from the Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health have found that dietary intake of the polyunsaturated fats found in fish have anti-inflammatory properties and show promise for the effective treatment and prevention of periodontitis. Study results were published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.

Periodontitis is a common inflammatory disease in which the supporting bone and fibers that hold teeth in place become damaged. Pockets can form below the gum line that trap food and plaque, which if left unchecked, can result in structural bone and tooth loss. Proper dental treatment and improved home care can usually help prevent further damage.

Source: Elsevier Health Sciences, 2010