It’s well-known that diligent oral hygiene can prevent bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. It can also help you feel fresh and confident in your smile. But did you know that it can also benefit your overall health? Research indicates a connection between poor oral hygiene and problems with metabolism in Colorado Springs. Let’s talk more about how these issues are linked and what you can do to enjoy improved overall wellness.
Oral Hygiene and Gum Disease
Missteps in oral hygiene can allow harmful bacteria to accumulate in the mouth. Those bacteria, in turn, can cause gum disease, an infection of the pink tissue that surrounds the jawbone and roots of the teeth. At first, gum disease may seem like it’s not a big deal; it might cause some minor swelling and bleeding. Left untreated, though, it can wreak havoc on an individual’s oral health. In fact, it is a leading cause of tooth loss among adults.
Gum Disease and Metabolic Syndrome
The consequences of uncontrolled gum disease go beyond the oral cavity. It is a known risk factor for metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that affect how the body processes energy. It is often a precursor for serious health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
How does gum disease contribute to metabolic syndrome? The answer may relate to inflammation. Gum disease can contribute to chronic inflammation throughout the body, which in turn can adversely affect virtually all of its systems.
Additionally, the bacteria that causes gum disease can affect the gut’s microbiome (the makeup of microorganisms throughout the digestive system). By upsetting the balance of bacteria, it can contribute a range of metabolic symptoms, such as weight gain, elevated blood sugar levels, and more.
Oral Hygiene Tips for a Healthier Metabolism
Protecting your oral health in Colorado Springs has the potential to boost your overall wellness. Here are some tips to help you maintain a clean and disease-free smile:
- Brush your teeth twice a day — be sure to clean the area along the gumline!
- Floss once a day.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
- Limit your intake of sugary and starchy foods.
- Visit your general dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
You should also stay alert for signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen gums, bad breath, and gum recession. At the first sign of such issues, you should schedule a dental appointment. The earlier gum disease is caught, the more likely it is that it can be reversed before it causes permanent damage.
Your oral health plays a vital role in your overall well-being! A few simple adjustments to your oral hygiene routine may protect your metabolism and lower your risk of serious health problems.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Erick Anderson has decades of experience as a general dentist. Throughout his career, he has helped countless patients to prevent or reverse gum disease. If you would like to learn how he may be able to serve you and your family, contact us at 719-593-0988.