When people eat freely without gaining weight, they’re often said to have a fast metabolism, giving the impression that metabolism alone keeps them slim. However, metabolism involves more than just weight control. Research indicates that poor oral health can actually disrupt your metabolism. Read on to understand what metabolism is, how oral health impacts it, and get some tips on maintaining a healthy smile.
What Is Metabolism?
Metabolism is the process where your body turns food into energy by combining calories with oxygen. It also helps build proteins, fats, and other important substances, and removes waste. A slow metabolism can lead to unwanted weight gain, especially around the abdomen and organs, which is linked to health issues like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and strokes.
How Oral Hygiene Affects Your Metabolism
Oral infections, like gum disease, can spread harmful bacteria to other parts of your body. Research shows that inflammation from these bacteria can lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of metabolic syndrome—a group of conditions that raises your chances of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
This includes high blood sugar, excess belly fat, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels. These issues can seriously impact your health, so preventing them is crucial.
7 Tips for Preventing Oral Health Problems
Luckily, most common oral health problems can be avoided with good dental care. Here are some simple tips to maintain a healthy mouth:
- Brush and floss – Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush to protect your enamel. Don’t forget to floss before bedtime to clear away plaque and food particles from between your teeth that your toothbrush might miss.
- Visit your dentist – Schedule a dental visit every six months for checkups and cleanings. Regular appointments help your hygienist remove plaque and tartar, while your dentist can spot and address any oral health issues early on.
- Eat a balanced diet – Opt for dentist-friendly foods, such as lean proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
- Limit your sugar intake – To reduce your risk of cavities, limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, as the bacteria that cause decay thrive on sugar.
- Avoid unhealthy habits – Avoid bad habits like smoking, chewing ice, and using your teeth to open things, as these can harm your teeth and increase the risk of decay.
While an unhealthy smile can negatively impact your metabolism, maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet, avoiding harmful habits, and regularly visiting your dentist can make a significant difference. By following these tips, you can prevent oral health problems and support both your dental and overall well-being.
About the Author
Dr. Jay Owen, Dr. Rudy Wolf, Dr. Philip S. Walerko, Dr. Gwen Hooks, and Dr. David L. Polk are the esteemed leaders at PeaksView Dental, committed to providing exceptional dental care to residents of Bedford. They specialize in preventive treatments such as checkups and cleanings to help prevent oral health issues, promote overall wellness, and ensure a bright smile. They also offer expert guidance on maintaining your smile’s optimal condition at home. To schedule a consultation or learn more about their services, call PeaksView Dental at (540) 586-8106 or visit their website.
