Your New Year’s resolution to eat better and exercise more is not only good for your body. Losing weight can also lead to a healthy smile!
A healthy weight is not only good for your waistline – your teeth will benefit. Why? Obesity can lead to a number of health problems that can affect your oral health – diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and more. Foods high in fat, sugar and salt can add to the amount of bacteria in your mouth. When the bacteria in our mouths come in contact with sugars and starches, they create acids, which can lead to cavities.
Being obese or even overweight can also lead to diabetes or heart disease. Research suggests that heart disease and strokes can be linked to the inflammation caused by bacteria. Diabetes can lead to gum disease because it makes a body vulnerable to infections. These are all good reasons to start exercising and eating right!
You can also protect your health by practicing good oral hygiene every day. Here are some tips:
• Brush your teeth twice daily. Floss once a day.
• Eat a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables. Watch how many starches and sugars you take in every day. Try to avoid candy, soda, and sugary drinks. That will help your waistline too!
• Replace your toothbrush every three months. Replace it sooner if the bristles on your toothbrush are frayed.
• See your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning.
Learn more about how obesity is linked to oral health.