Obesity is an issue and an epidemic that is growing steadily due to many reasons including poor eating habits, availability of healthy foods, external chemical pollutants etc. But obesity isn’t just a body problem; it can have a negative impact on your mouth and your oral hygiene.
One of the most common reasons for the link between poor oral health and obesity is the amount of food consumed. Frequent eating, eating late, and eating a large amount of acidic, fatty, and sugary foods all lead to oral decay and dental issues. The average American diet today includes too many processed foods as well as fast foods and overly seasoned foods. In order to protect your mouth from all of these extra chemicals as well as poor nutrition, it is important to eat as many natural (unprocessed) and healthy foods as you can. Fruits, vegetables and lean meats are the best options to fill your diet.
Obesity can also lead to issues such as gum disease, premature tooth loss and bad breath. This is most likely because of inefficient exercise and an over consumption of calories. Also, eating a large quantity of food doesn’t guarantee that you are getting all of the nutrition that you need. You may still be starving your body of essential nutrients that are key to keeping your teeth and mouth healthy. If your diet is lacking in calcium and typical necessary vitamins, your teeth will weaken, leading to many potential dental issues.
Food these days also contains a large amount of sodium. Sometimes we don’t even notice how much sodium we are consuming. Most people do not consume enough water to offset the high sodium intake and we end up with dry mouths. A rise in medication consumption is also linked to dry mouths. If you are taking medications or eating too many salty foods, always drink enough water to ensure that your saliva level is adequate in your mouth.
Obesity is an issue that can be overcome with proper eating habits, exercise, surgeries, and/or professional help. Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care actively promotes healthy lifestyle choices and has been treating patients in the New Fairfield, CT area for over twenty-five years. If you have any questions call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.