Limit Fish Oil Supplements Prior To Dental Treatment

Fish oil has become a popular supplement for American adults, for good reasons! The label of the Omega 3 Fish Oil soft gels I take touts “Supports healthy heart, joints, brain and skin.” I’ve had patients who credit them for helping everything from dry eyes to their jogging distance.

Like anything, however, too much of a good thing can become not such a good thing. Many physicians recommend taking 3,000 milligrams of fish oil a day. That’s typically a capsule of 1,000 milligrams taken with each meal. If you take more than that, please alert us.

Fish oil has a similar effect to that of aspirin, which can cause prolonged bleeding. When you exceed the recommended 3,000 milligrams, excessive bleeding during some dental procedures can result. For those who already take anticoagulants (such as Coumadin), combining fish oil increases the risk for excessive bleeding even more.

Like any medication or over-the-counter supplement (including herbal types), please update us on those you take at every visit. It is our goal to support your overall health so your oral health enhances your well-being and treatment is always a pleasant experience!