You know that hitting the gym, going for a run, or taking a walk is excellent for your heart health, weight management, and mental clarity. Well, we have one more thing to add to that list. Did you know your workout routine can actually play a significant role in the health of your teeth and gums?
While of course brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings are the basic foundation of good dental care, many lifestyle factors can also influence your oral health outcomes. In case you needed yet another compelling reason to stay active, here it is!
How Oral Health and Physical Activity are Connected
Your overall health and oral health are connected in more ways than you might have realized. When you exercise and improve your physical health, your mouth benefits too.
Research consistently shows that those who maintain an active lifestyle and a healthy BMI are less likely to develop severe gum disease. Physical activity triggers positive changes in your immune system, blood circulation, and inflammatory response. By improving these systemic functions, you create an environment where gums can remain healthy, and teeth are better protected against decay and infection.
Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation and gum disease go hand in hand. When your body is chronically inflamed, gums become more prone to infection, swelling, and bleeding. If not addressed, this inflammation can damage gum tissue and bone, threatening the health of your teeth.
Regular exercise is a proven way to reduce inflammation in the body, including your gums. Physical activity lowers levels of inflammatory markers in your blood, helping your body control gum inflammation. For those prone to gingivitis, staying active supports the body’s ability to fight bacteria and lowers the risk of progressing to more advanced gum disease.
Boost Your Immune System
Your immune system helps control the bacteria in your mouth that can cause tooth decay and gum infections. When your immunity is strong, your body is better able to fight off these threats and protect your oral health.
Exercise gives your immune system a helpful boost by increasing the circulation of immune cells, making it easier for your body to detect and fight infections, including those in your mouth.
Better Circulation
Good blood flow is important for healthy gums. Exercises of all kinds – including cardio, strength training, and even yoga – improve circulation throughout your body, delivering oxygen and nutrients that help tissue stay strong and recover faster. This enhanced circulation also helps keep your gums less prone to infection.
Improved Bone Density
Exercise, particularly strength training, has been tied to increased bone density. These benefits are seen throughout the body (not just in the body parts you use to exercise with), including the jawbone. Because your jaw is the structural support for teeth and gums, this benefit is integral to oral health.
Supporting Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Regular exercise encourages other positive habits for oral health. Making one positive change can often inspire other healthy habits, including:
- Better Dietary Choices- People who stay active tend to make healthier dietary choices, such as eating fewer sugary and processed foods, which lowers the risk of cavities.
- Improved Hydration- Active people also tend to drink more water, which benefits oral health by rinsing away food particles and bacteria and neutralizing acids in the mouth. Water also reduces dry mouth, which can lead to a higher risk of decay. Make sure to stick to water and avoid sports drinks, which can be high in sugar and acids.
- Stress Reduction- Physical activity is an effective stress reliever. Managing stress can help reduce teeth grinding and jaw discomfort, further protecting your teeth and gums.
Better Choices, Better Oral Health
When it comes to staying active, eating right, and making smarter lifestyle choices, you aren’t just improving your physique – you are supporting your oral health. Of course, keep in mind that exercise works best alongside daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
If you have questions about your oral health or the lifestyle factors you can improve to encourage healthy teeth and gums, be sure to ask at your next appointment!