Take out your mental list of reasons why exercise is important and get ready to add another entry, because studies indicate those who exercise regularly have significantly reduced risk for gum disease.
If you’re envisioning weird jaw workouts, don’t worry. You won’t have to lift weights with your teeth to protect your gums. Read on to find out what makes gum disease problematic and how regular physical activity can help keep you from having to worry about it.
Why You Really Don’t Want Gum Disease
“Gum disease” isn’t exactly the type of name that makes you think of sunshine and rainbows, but it’s worth emphasizing just how unpleasant it can be. Gum disease, sometimes called periodontitis, damages the tissue around your teeth and, in advanced cases, neighboring bones.
In other words, gum disease affects the stuff that keeps your teeth in place. When these substances deteriorate, your pearly whites will become loose and possibly fall out. Avoiding gum disease means avoiding losing your precious incisors!
How Exercise Reduces Your Risk
Consistent exercise reduces your risk for gum disease in two basic ways.
First, exercise is known to reduce inflammation – including inflammation that might develop in your mouth. Dental swelling creates empty space between your gums and teeth, which can be an unfortunate hiding place for bacteria. Limit its ability to cause periodontic infections by staying loose with activities like yoga and swimming.
Second, exercise helps your everyday biological functions run smoothly. It’s no secret that physical activity improves blood flow, digestion, heart health, and so much more. When your body (and particularly your gut health) is in peak performance, it’s better able to combat conditions like gum disease.
When your overall health is good, specific parts like your gums are more likely to stay hardy. This means that the reverse is true as well. Low activity, poor hygiene, and bad habits can cause problems for your teeth just as much as your heart. This is why it’s important to not only maintain beneficial habits, but also regular checkups with your dentist.
As a specialist, your dentist can help you create individualized strategies to promote your oral health. So if the thought of losing your teeth gives you anxiety, ask your dentist for more recommendations on preventing gum disease.
About the Practice
At Hamilton Lakes Dentistry, we have a team of highly educated dentists who are happy to share their knowledge with their patients. Your health is our priority, so if you have questions about good dental care or are concerned about your symptoms, visit our website or call the office at 630-394-5567 for a consultation.