The next time you show off those pearly whites for a photo, try saying “halibut” instead of “cheese.” The latest research finds that fish oil isn’t just terrific for your brain and your heart–it can also help your smile.

The Japanese study published in Nutrition found that people with the lowest levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA (that’s docosahexaenoic acid, if you like mouth-filling words) were 1.5 times more likely to have periodontal problems such as tooth decay and gum disease than those who got the most.

Makes perfect sense… since omega-3 fatty acids are among nature’s most powerful anti-inflammatories, and many dental diseases are caused by inflammation.

The benefits of these great omega-3 fatty acids don’t end in the mouth. Fish oil can also help your eyes, brain and heart, as well as lower cholesterol levels and relieve pain.

Forget two birds with one stone–this is a whole bucket of fish caught on one line.

If there’s anything fish oil can’t do, it’s freshen your breath–it’s still fish, after all. But you can take care of that with a drop or two of peppermint oil after your meal, or by using a fish oil supplement instead of eating filets.