SCOTTS VALLEY, SANTA CRUZ, CA
Most people know and understand how eating healthy and working out can dramatically improve their overall health and well-being. The beginning of a new year prompts many to take control of their health. When you adopt a healthy lifestyle, you can shed some unwanted pounds and improve your health. In addition to making you mentally and physically healthier, losing weight can boost your self-esteem and improve your oral health. Our Scotts Valley dentists share on the blog today the oral health benefits of slimming your waistline so that you can have a healthy smile.
How is weight connected to your gums?
Gum disease is the result of harmful bacteria creating inflammation. In addition, the human body produces natural proteins with inflammatory properties called cytokines. In most cases, individuals who have excessive weight naturally produce more cytokines, which increases your body’s inflammation rate. As a result, overweight individuals are at higher risk for gum disease development.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection in your gums. Uncovering gum disease during its early stages is crucial in your fight for a cure. However, once gum disease progresses to the advanced stages, it is only manageable, not curable. Our Santa Cruz dentists explain that gum disease can cause pain, inflammation, and gum damage. In extensive cases, gum disease can cause tooth loss and increase heart disease and diabetes risk.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Gum disease is preventable when you practice regular oral health care daily. According to the American Dental Association, brushing twice and flossing each day can help maintain good oral health. Furthermore, regular checkups and cleanings at our Scotts Valley dentist office twice a year can help monitor your oral health and detect early signs of gum disease. Below are some actionable steps to take in your fight against gum disease.
Diet and Exercise
Your weight reflects your dietary choices and exercise regimen. A healthy body and mind that receives proper nutrients and vitamins coupled with regular physical activity encourage good oral health. Since overweight individuals naturally produce inflammation-causing bacteria, losing weight can dramatically reduce your gum disease risk. Our Los Gatos dentists advise patients to ensure they consume healthy amounts of vitamin D and B to promote good oral health. A natural way to raise your vitamin D levels is to spend some time in the sun. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking vitamins or supplements to ensure you get the most effective and safe amount for your needs.
At-Home Oral Hygiene
The most important activity to prevent gum disease is brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Brushing your teeth removes food remnants and debris, including harmful bacteria that can create gum disease and cavities. Moreover, flossing reaches the nooks and crannies between your teeth and underneath the gum line and removes harmful substances that your toothbrush cannot reach. Our family dentists in Santa Cruz encourage patients to follow an at-home oral hygiene regimen for the best gum disease prevention.
Professional Dental Care
No matter how particular you are about your oral care regimen, there are some areas in your mouth that your toothbrush and floss can’t reach. Therefore, bacteria can hide in the unreachable crevices and potentially harm your tooth enamel. Fortunately, when you visit our dentists in Scotts Valley, you can expect our team to conduct a complete examination and dental cleaning. Our dental hygienists use special tools to clean your teeth and gums and remove stuck-on substances such as tartar. When you remove harmful substances, you reduce inflammation and gum disease risk.
Dental Cleanings in Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley, California
A healthy lifestyle can help slim your waistline and boost oral health. Even though avoiding gum disease may be challenging, preventing gum disease development could potentially save your life. At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, we understand the role gum disease plays in your oral health, and we want to help you fight it. Our family dentists in Santa Cruz are ready to provide you with high-quality care in a technologically advanced office. Call us today at (831) 438-4411, schedule an appointment online, or request a Smile Virtual Consult.
