Exercising is an excellent way to improve your overall health. It has been proven to help prevent excess weight gain, combat health conditions and diseases, improve one’s mood, boost energy, and promote better sleep, but can it also benefit your oral health? Read on to learn the effects of exercising on your oral health and how it can lower your chances of developing gum disease.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that support your teeth that is often the result of poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is easily treatable. If left to its own devices, gingivitis can progress to a more severe stage of gum disease called periodontitis. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults and has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other conditions. There are many common symptoms of gum disease, including:
- Gums that bleed when you floss or brush
- Gums that are red, swollen, or tender
- Pain when chewing
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Toothache
- Tooth loss
How Exercise Can Help Prevent Gum Disease
In a study done by Colgate, they found that non-smokers who exercise five days each week are 54% less likely to contract gum disease than non-smokers who don’t exercise regularly. Researchers believe this is because regular exercise gets your blood pumping, which helps your digestive tract function more effectively. Because of this, the tissues in your digestive tract (such as the gums) are better at combating infections such as gum disease. Additionally, this allows your body to more easily absorb nutrients in the foods you eat, which also encourages healthier teeth and gums.
Other Ways You Can Prevent Gum Disease
Now that we know how exercise can positively impact your oral health, what else can you do to lower your chances of developing gum disease? A few other precautions you can take to prevent gum disease include:
- Brush – Brush your teeth two times per day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove leftover food particles some harmful oral bacteria has less to feed on.
- Floss – Flossing at least once per day, preferably before bedtime, will remove 40% of plaque from your teeth and dislodge any food particles that have gotten stuck.
- Rinse – Using mouthwash will allow you to remove bacteria from the parts of your mouth that you can’t reach with a toothbrush or dental floss.
- Avoid tobacco – Smoking or using other tobacco products more than doubles your risk of developing gum disease. Ask your dentist for tips or resources that can help you quit.
- Visit your dentist – Make appointments with the dentist at least twice per year to ensure that you don’t have oral health issues that need treating and so they can do a deep clean of your teeth.
Between getting plenty of exercises and using the tips above, you can maintain excellent oral health and keep gum disease at bay. Take good care of your mouth so you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime!
About the Author
The oral health of Wichita Falls is in good hands with Strohman Dental. Led by Dr. Shelly Strohman, they offer patients of all ages the quality care they need to keep their teeth in good condition. They also provide treatment for gum disease and can provide tips on how to prevent it so you can maintain a healthy smile. For more information on how exercising can help you prevent gum disease or to set up an appointment, call their office at (940) 613-0299 or visit their website.