Best Fish for Your Teeth

Nutritionists and health experts recommend eating fish a few times a week as part of a healthy diet. But not all fish are created equal. Some are more nutritious than others while other types contain higher levels of pollutants such as mercury. Believe it or not, though, there are some varieties of fish that are particularly beneficial for your oral health. Include these three fish in your diet a couple of times a week to give your teeth and gums some essential nutrients to keep them healthy.

Salmon

Arguably the number one most recommended fish for healthy eating is salmon. This oily fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids. These acids reduce inflammation in the gums associated with periodontal disease. Stick to Alaskan wild-caught varieties since they contain less mercury than farm-raised fish.

Sardines

Small fish like sardines are great because they also give you a boost of important minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These are are all essential for building and maintaining strong teeth and bones. Sardines also contain one of the highest concentrations of omega-3s with 1,950mg per three-ounce serving. Opting for fish with soft bones, like sardines, gives you a double dose of nutrients.

Herring

Much like sardines, these small fish are packed with nutrients and are more affordable than Alaskan wild-caught salmon. A six-ounce serving of herring gives you over half your daily recommended intake of phosphorus as well as 14% of daily calcium and 17% of daily magnesium. The protein in herring also helps your body to produce collagen, which is necessary for repairing soft connective tissues such as the gums.

Henson Family Dental offers convenient and comfortable care for the whole family, and we provide all of our patients with a wide range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatments to keep your smile healthy and happy. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment.