Erwin, Jonesborough and Greeneville, TN
When we have patients who eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and exercise regularly but complain that they still can’t seem to shed unwanted pounds, they’re often surprised to learn of the correlation between oral health and overall health, including a person’s ability to lose weight. Let’s look today with our Erwin family dentist at how dental issues could be the culprit behind your inability to meet your weight-loss goals.
Inflammation
Chronic inflammation from poor oral health, such as gum disease, can significantly affect weight management. Inflammation resulting from oral infections spreads throughout the body, disrupting metabolic processes and contributing to insulin resistance, which may lead to weight gain.
Chewing and nutrition
Individuals facing dental problems, including gum disease or missing, decayed, damaged or misaligned teeth, might struggle to chew nutritious foods such as raw, crisp fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Consequently, they may opt for softer, processed foods that tend to be higher in calories and sugar.
Sleep apnea
Poor oral health, misaligned teeth or a small jaw can contribute to sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep. This condition repeatedly interrupts the sleep cycle and prevents deep sleep. Quality sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism and regulating hunger-related hormones.
How can I improve my oral health?
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Practice strong oral hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once daily. If you want to boost your regimen, add an antibacterial mouthwash.
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Visit your Erwin family dentist regularly for check-ups
Routine checkups help with the early detection of any potential oral health issues, such as gum disease and tooth decay.
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Talk to us about restorative dentistry
If you are missing teeth or have teeth that are decayed or damaged, our Jonesborough restorative dentist can correct this with treatments like fillings, crowns or dental implants.
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Treat sleep apnea
If you believe you may suffer from sleep apnea, mention that to our Greeneville airway dentist. We can make recommendations, such as oral appliance therapy, that can improve your sleep quality and overall health.
Comprehensive dental care in Erwin, Jonesborough and Greeneville, Tennessee
If you’ve tried everything, including maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, and you still aren’t losing weight, your oral health could be what’s interfering. Schedule an appointment today with us at Tusculum Dental Care. We can be reached at (423) 639-7575 or by contacting us online.