How exercise can improve your oral health

The new year has begun and every gym is packed with people. It seems like everyone has made a resolution to exercise this year. But by March, all those packed gyms will likely be empty again as people give up on their goals and revert back to old habits. If you’ve made physical activity a resolution for 2023, this is your sign to stick with it. Not only will it benefit your overall health, it may also boost your oral health!

There are numerous studies that link a healthy weight, diet and exercise to a decreased chance of having periodontitis. This is a gum infection which causes inflammation in the tissue surrounding one’s teeth. Periodontitis can be caused by poor brushing and flossing habits, as well as lifestyle factors.

Also, exercise can benefit your oral health by improving your posture, which can affect the alignment of your teeth and jaw. Physical activity is also a stress reliever, which can decrease jaw clenching and teeth grinding that damages tooth enamel. 

Another benefit of exercise is saliva! When we move, our saliva flow rate increases. This is vitally important for overall oral health, as saliva helps wash out bacteria, food particles and prevent cavities. It’s easy to underestimate the power of saliva, but it’s an important component of a healthy mouth!

Although exercise is generally found to boost oral health, vigorous exercise can have the opposite effect, especially if one breathes too much through their mouth during physical activity. It’s also important to maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine to keep teeth and gums healthy!

If you’re ready to get serious about your oral health, book an appointment with Jackson Dental by calling (573) 243-5200 or stopping by our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo.