Healthy LivingAvoid Gum Disease with these Healthy Habits

by Dr. Joseph R. Simaie 05/23/2008

Avoid Gum DiseaseCan healthy lifestyle habits also promote dental health? More specifically, can a combination of regular exercise, weight control, and a healthy diet prevent gum disease? Gum disease is the inflammation of the gums and the bone around the teeth, caused by overload of bacteria under the gums. According to the American Dental Association, it is the #1 reason for tooth loss in the US.

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University posed that question in a study and came up with some surprising answers.1 The study collected data on more that 12,000 subjects who participated in the third US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. For each subject, three “health-enhancing” behaviors were assessed:

  1. Getting regular exercise
  2. Maintaining a normal body weight
  3. Maintaining a “high quality” diet

When the data were compared to the incidence of gum disease nationwide, the results showed that gum disease:

  • Was reduced by 16% in people who engaged in one of the above health-enhancing behaviors
  • Was reduced by 29% in people who engaged in any two behaviors
  • Was reduced by 40% reduction in those people who engaged in all three behaviors

There is a multitude of factors explaining why the researchers found these results, but nevertheless, it seems that leading a healthy life style is also good for your teeth and gums.

Reference

  1. Al-Zahrani , E et al. Journal of Dentistry, 33(9), 703-710.

[Ed. note:Dr. Joseph R. Simaie is an implant and restorative dentist, in Beverly Hills, CA. In addition to restoring smiles, his office is on the forefront of practicing preventive dentistry. Dr. Simaie is an assistant clinical professor at University of Southern California School of Dentistry, and also serves on several dental boards.]

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One Response to “Avoid Gum Disease with these Healthy Habits”

  1. Untuk Wanita » Blog Archive » Disease Prevention…Through a Healthy Beautiful Smile! Or, Dental Care from an MD’s Perspective Says:

    [...] caries (cavities) that are sometimes very severe. We also see a fair amount of dental abscesses, gum disease and related conditions. Unfortunately, there is not much for us to [...]

    Entered: June 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 am. Permalink

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