Weight Problems Cause Oral Problems As Well

Being overweight comes with a lot of consequences in terms of health. Most people point out that obesity puts people at risk for heart disease, stroke and the like. Aside from these obvious health risks, obesity can also cause other less obvious problems such as poor oral health. According to studies, being overweight can increase the chances for having halitosis as well as cavities and other oral infections. Studies also show that the higher the incidence of oral problems occurs in people with a body mass index of 30 or more.
Although it may seem farfetched, there is a connection between obesity and oral health problems. For starters those who are overweight tend to have a higher consumption of sugary foods. Any dentist will tell you that the consumption of too much sugar will lead to tooth decay. Other than the sugary foods, those who are overweight tend to eat a lot in general. This will mean that there will always be food residue inside the mouth. These food particles of course become a breeding ground for bacteria which can cause dental cavities.
Aside from the bacteria which can cause cavities, the food itself may cause the buildup of plaque. Many people who are obese tend to have a high glycemic diet. They often consume fermentable carbohydrates in the form of potatoes, refined wheat, rice and pasta. All these are easily converted into simple sugars inside the mouth. When these simple sugars are not immediately removed from the mouth it turns into plaque. In turn when plaque is not removed it may buildup as well resulting to oral diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis and others. These gum diseases may eventually lead to tooth lose and heart problems when left unattended.
Another connection between obesity and oral health problems lie in the health of the gums itself. Like other living tissues in the human body, the gums need proper and sufficient nutrients. The right nutrients allow these to stay healthy preventing any oral problems. The unhealthy diet which most overweight people have provides little nutrition for the gums. Of course the lack of nutrients makes way for weakening and infection. Aside from the gums, teeth may also be affected by poor nutrition. Weak teeth susceptible to damage and cavities are likely to occur. Furthermore, poor nutrition can dampen the body’s ability to fight off infections. This will include infections in the mouth. Those who are overweight may have more problems trying to deal with oral disease.
Lastly, poor oral health may also be attributed to obesity. Studies show that people who are overweight have a higher tendency to become depressed. Once depression kicks in, people may tend to eat more and care for themselves less. As a result, there can be less frequent brushing or very limited oral hygiene. The lack of these usual oral hygiene practices may lead to the development of various diseases as well as bacteria in the mouth.
On the flip side, experts also link oral health problems to obesity. People who have oral problems may find it difficult to properly chew their food. Those with an inability to chew food properly may not opt to eat healthier items such as fruits and vegetables. The poor choice in food will of course lead to an increase in weight gain.