Many people are already aware that exercise can improve their overall health in different ways. For instance, lifting weights builds muscles to support your skeletal structure, and cardiovascular activity, like running, dancing, or swimming, can boost your heart health.
But did you know that working out more can also improve your dental health? Research has revealed a connection between increased exercise and the likelihood of developing gum disease. Continue reading to learn more about it so you can avoid this common dental concern!
What Exactly Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when bacteria in your mouth form plaque along your gumline, allowing it to penetrate the tissues and trigger inflammation and infection. The earliest stage, gingivitis, can sometimes be halted and reversed with more consistent brushing and flossing at home, but it doesn’t always show noticeable symptoms until it starts to progress. Unfortunately, if your condition reaches the advanced stage, periodontitis, your dentist may be able to help manage it but not fully cure it.
That means preventing periodontal disease is essential for building and maintaining a happy, healthy smile. But many patients aren’t sure how to care for their connective tissues.
Does Exercise Impact Gum Disease?
Physical activity can help you improve your heart health, lose weight, and boost your confidence, but did you know it can also impact the risk of developing gum disease? For example, a 2021 analysis found an association between higher frequency of exercise and lower occurrence of periodontal problems. Researchers discovered that adults who engaged in 5 or more instances of moderate exercise, or 3 or more events of high-intensity activities, were less likely to have gum disease.
This is likely due to the fact that exercise helps regulate digestions, improves blood flow, and boosts your immune system, which reduces chronic inflammation and helps fight infections, such as gum disease.
How Can I Help Prevent Gum Disease?
It’s natural to want to do everything you can to protect your smile, but you’re not alone if you have physical challenges, health conditions, or other issues that prevent you from exercising regularly. Thankfully, you can also help avoid periodontal problems by:
- Establishing a dental hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing twice daily removes harmful plaque and bacteria that cause dental issues.
- Choose the right products. If you avoid flossing because you don’t like the feeling of the string or struggle to manipulate its movement, you might do better with flossers, which have handles, or an oral irrigator, which uses a pressurized stream of water instead.
- Reduce sugar consumption. This sweet ingredient attracts unhealthy germs that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Dental checkups and cleanings every 6 months help your provider catch and treat concerns like gingivitis before they progress.
If you’re worried you might already have developed gum disease, it’s time to contact your dentist for an appointment!
About the Practice
Patients at United Dental Centers of Chicago benefit from a team of dentists who are passionate about helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. They collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including preventive care and gum disease treatments, to meet the unique needs of people of all ages. They take the time to learn your goals and concerns, then implement customized treatment plans using advanced technology for accurate, comfortable, long-lasting results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (773) 646-6262.