Some studies suggest that omega-3s—like the ones in fish oil—might help kill bacteria that cause gum disease, but we don’t yet know if eating more omega-3s actually improves gum health in real people.

Scientists haven’t found strong enough proof yet that omega-3 supplements help with gum disease because the studies done so far were too small, too short, and didn’t all measure the same things the same way.

Taking omega-3 supplements (like fish oil) along with a deep dental cleaning might help your gums heal a little better by reducing swelling and inflammation, leading to tighter gum attachment around your teeth.