Exercise has proven to improve mood and decrease feelings of anxiety through hormone relief. Did you know that there is also a connection between exercise and your mental health? Past research has proven exercise to be a positive choice to reduce the risk of adverse oral health conditions. This also goes for promoting strong dental health.
Specifically, those with a low physical activity level including a poor diet significantly increased the chances of periodontal disease due to a higher dental plaque index.
Periodontal disease occurs when the underlying gum tissue is exposed to infection. The identification of periodontal disease can be found through swollen or bleeding gums and halitosis.
Below outlines the link between exercise and your dental health and some of the risk factors of periodontal disease and how regular exercise can keep these factors low.
Exercise To Limit Obesity
Obesity is a key risk factor for periodontal disease due to inflammation of fat cells that weaken your immune system owing to microorganisms being present in the oral cavity. Bacteria build up causing an imbalance in the microbial community, and reducing inflammation and obesity can be performed through regular exercise. Exercise is also beneficial for the likes of reducing anxiety and depression.
Stronger Metabolism
Through regular exercise and eating the right foods, your metabolism along with blood flow and digestive system will significantly improve. Where your metabolism is fast, more calories will burn throughout the day during rest and activity. This does mean you’ll need to take in more calories to maintain a certain weight. If you’re feeding the right nutrients in the mouth, your teeth and gums will benefit, such as consuming calcium for stronger enamel.
Limiting Stress For Positive Mental Health
Stress impacts oral health and can cause wear-and-tear on your teeth, and also produce conditions such as teeth grinding and TMJ disorder. When one is stressed, it’s highly likely that your oral routine won’t be maintained. This means you could leave food debris in the mouth causing dental plaque build-up. You may also stress eat, meaning further neglect to your teeth. When plaque forms with bacteria, this will penetrate through your gums causing periodontal disease. When you exercise, those negative endorphins are released, making you feel better about yourself. You’re also ensuring your teeth remain healthy.
Your BMI
Research finds if your BMI is at an acceptable level, you’re maintaining a neutral or ideal weight, which can reduce your chances of periodontal disease by up to 40%. If your BMI is high or exceeding the ideal weight, your gums are likely to become exposed to harmful bacterial acids. This will cause enamel erosion and gum recession.
Exercise And Stay Active For Positive Mental Health
Exercise is one of the important tips in preserving gum health. Exercise along with your nutrition and habits will ensure strong and healthy teeth. There are many benefits to remaining physically active, but if you’re conscious about your weight, you’re more likely to avoid fad diets and replace them with plant-based foods containing calcium sources.
If you’re showing signs of periodontal disease, contact us immediately. Our range of dental services is catered to preserve the strength of your teeth and gums. contact our Brunswick doctors here and we’d be more than happy to help you.
