When you eat food, you don’t instantly gain all of the benefits of the nutrients and vitamins; your body must first process it into energy through a process called metabolism. The rate at which this essential function works depends on various factors, such as your age and diet. But did you know that your oral hygiene can also influence it? Spending a few extra minutes brushing your teeth every day can do much more than fight cavities! Here’s more about how from your dentist.
The Link Between Metabolism and Oral Hygiene
The rate at which your body converts food into energy is the metabolic rate, and this rate can be negatively influenced by metabolic syndrome—a group of risk factors that increase the chances of serious health issues like diabetes and heart disease. A few of these factors include excess body fat and high blood pressure, meaning that regular exercise and a healthy diet is important, but oral hygiene also plays a vital role.
Without preventive dental care or by failing to keep your mouth clean at home, you’ll be at an increased risk of issues such as inflammation and infection, which add to the chances of metabolic syndrome. This means that proactively cleaning your teeth and gums will minimize your risks and ensure that your body is properly benefiting from the food you eat. It’s worth noting that eating more nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, is substantially easier when you have strong and healthy teeth. Conversely, many people with bad teeth have no choice but to consume more easy-to-chew, less nutritious items. Needless to say, this can directly contribute to metabolic syndrome!
Tips for Maintaining Optimal Oral Health
Fortunately, there are several things you can do at home to make certain that your smile is as healthy and clean as possible. This won’t just keep nasty oral health issues at bay, but it will also reduce your chances of metabolic syndrome. Consider the following:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss at least once daily and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash regularly.
- Avoid bad oral habits like smoking and using tobacco.
- Reduce your consumption of sugary foods and drinks.
- Schedule regular preventive care at least twice a year with your dentist.
By understanding how your oral hygiene is linked to your metabolism, you can take measures to ensure that your smile is as healthy as possible so that you’re setting your body up to also be strong and vital.
About the Practice
The team at MoreSMILES Dental is proud to serve patients and families in the Covington, LA area. The practice is fortunate to house three skilled specialists: Dr. James A. Moreau, Dr. Shannon O. Doyle, and Dr. Israel M. Finger. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (985) 809-7645.