Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI
Having fitness goals is quite common. Many people take strides daily to improve or maintain their health, from exercising to eating healthy. But, fewer people include keeping their mouth healthy as part of that focus. Today on the blog, we are going to discuss how having healthy teeth means having a healthier life.
Oral health has a lot to do with the health of your body, and here’s how.
Gum disease increases the risk of heart disease and stroke
More than half of the adults in America are afflicted by gum disease, an oral disease that causes foul-smelling breath, puffy and bleeding gums, and loose teeth that eventually need extracting. The ironic part about it is that gum disease is entirely preventable in most healthy individuals. So, if you’re clocking miles on the treadmill or pumping iron in the gym in efforts of keeping your arteries clear, don’t stop there. Simply brushing and flossing daily, as well as seeing the dentist twice a year for routine checkups and cleanings can prevent gum disease from starting in the first place, and do a lot for your health.
Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease, which is the initial stage. It presents as gums that are red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this point in the game, it can be reversed without any permanent damage being done to your oral health. But, ignore it, and you soon will find yourself dealing with progressing stages of periodontitis or gum disease. Keep your mouth healthy, and you could lower your risk of heart disease or a stroke.
Poor oral health interferes with blood glucose levels
Diabetes has a lot to do with blood glucose levels, and consequently, so does your mouth! Poor oral health that results in inflamed gums or gum disease is intricately connected to your body’s ability to regulate glucose levels. On the flip side, fluctuating glucose levels significantly impact gum health, so people with type 2 diabetes have to work extra diligently to keep their teeth and gums healthy. While eating a healthy diet that is low in refined carbohydrates and sugar, as well as exercising regularly can help decrease your risk of type 2 diabetes, so will keeping your mouth clean! Furthermore, if you are type 2 diabetic, be sure that you don’t skip out on going to the dentist. Studies prove that gum disease treatment can lower blood glucose levels in those with type 2 diabetes.
Flossing could help you lose weight
Now, before you start thinking that you can cancel your gym membership and floss to stay in shape, hang on a minute. That’s not what we are alluding to. However, studies report that poor oral health could actually cause you to have more cravings, which, in essence, could lead to weight gain. So, if you aren’t taking care of your teeth and gums, it could be part of the reason why you are packing on the pounds or struggling to lose weight. Results of one study also reported that people with a higher body mass index (BMI) are more prone to developing gum disease, which could be due in part to their diet of unhealthy foods and consuming more sugar. Point being, take care of your teeth, and you may see an improvement in your weight.
As you can see, the health of the mouth and body are connected. You can’t expect to be in impeccable health, yet neglect your mouth and vice versa. Maintaining your health should include attention to all areas of your body, such as exercising to maintain muscle tone and healthy bones, eating healthy to maintain the recommended BMI for your body type, and taking care of your oral health by brushing and flossing daily, and seeing the dentist for cleanings and checkups twice a year.
To schedule your next visit, just call Hartrick Dentistry at (248) 549-0950. We welcome patients from Birmingham and Royal Oak, Michigan.