Even moderate amounts of omega-3 fats may help ward off gum disease, according to new research.

Researchers divided nearly 9,200 adults into three groups based on their omega-3 consumption.

Dental exams showed that those in the middle and upper third for consumption of the omega-3's DHA and EPA were 23 percent to 30 percent less likely to have gum disease.

Oral health is a fundamental part of optimal health, and there's convincing evidence linking the state of your teeth and gums to your overall health.

While good dental hygiene -- brushing, flossing and regular cleanings with your biological dentist -- is important, research is showing that some of the most important factors for your teeth and gum health have nothing to do with a toothbrush, and everything to do with your diet.

Omega-3 Fats are Great for Your Gums

The animal-based omega-3 fats EPA and DHA show strong promise for keeping your gums healthy. In the new study above, those with mid- to high consumption of omega-3s had up to a 30 percent lower risk of gum disease.

This makes perfect sense because chronic inflammation is a hallmark of gum disease, and omega-3 fats are effective in reducing chronic inflammation.

Periodontal disease involves both bone and the tissue that is in contact with that bone. From this contact, bacteria and toxic inflammatory compounds can easily enter your bloodstream.

Once in your bloodstream, these toxic compounds can harm the lining of your blood vessels, which can lead to both strokes and heart attacks, among other problems. So, reducing inflammation is of primary importance for your overall health and warding off gum disease as well.

In turn, every step you can take to keep gum disease at bay is worth it, as gum disease increases your risk of several other serious diseases.