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How Weight Loss and Gum Disease Affect Each Other

Posted on 3/3/2025 by Martin Periodontics

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You might be surprised to learn that the state of your teeth and gums can tell us a lot about your overall health. This is because many systemic health conditions, like diabetes and heart disease, can manifest in the mouth. Similarly, oral health issues like gum disease can impact your overall health, even making it harder to lose weight.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissues and bones that support your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. This plaque can irritate your gums, causing them to become inflamed and bleed.

How Weight Loss Affects Gum Disease

There are a few reasons why weight loss can affect gum disease:

•	Changes in your diet: When you lose weight, you may change the types of foods you eat, possibly cutting out sugary snacks and processed foods. This can help to improve your oral health, as these types of foods can contribute to plaque buildup.
•	Nutritional deficiencies: If you're not careful, weight loss can lead to nutritional deficiencies, which can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to gum disease.
•	Hormonal changes: Losing weight can cause hormonal changes, which can make your gums more sensitive to inflammation.
•	Certain medications: Some weight-loss medications can have side effects that dry out your mouth, which can increase your risk of gum disease.

How Gum Disease Affects Weight Loss

Gum disease can also make it harder to lose weight. Here's why:

•	It can make it difficult to eat: Gum disease can cause your gums to become swollen and tender, making it painful to chew. This can make it difficult to eat healthy foods, which can lead to weight gain.
•	It can cause fatigue: Gum disease can lead to chronic inflammation, which can make you feel tired and sluggish. This can make it harder to exercise and lose weight.
•	It can increase your risk of other health problems: Gum disease is linked to several other health problems, including diabetes and heart disease. These conditions can make it more difficult to lose weight and keep it off.

What You Can Do

If you're concerned about how weight loss or gum disease may be affecting your oral health, it's important to talk to your dentist. They can help you develop a plan to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent gum disease. This may include:

•	Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
•	Flossing once a day
•	Using an antiseptic mouthwash
•	Seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings

In addition to good oral care, you can also help to prevent gum disease by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.

Taking steps to improve your oral health can not only benefit your smile but also improve your overall health and make it easier to lose weight and keep it off.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of taking care of your overall health. By understanding the link between weight loss and gum disease, you can take steps to protect your oral health and improve your chances of achieving your weight loss goals.

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Martin Periodontics, 6410 Thornberry Court, Suite C, Mason, OH 45040-7909 • (513) 445-4282 • martinperio.com • 3/31/2025 • Page Keywords: dental implants Mason OH North Cincinnati OH •