Yoga can give you a healthier body and mind, but did you know it can also improve your oral health? These wonderful benefits of yoga can leave you with a healthier mouth.
Reduce Stress Levels
One way that yoga helps with your body is by reducing stress, and this can lead to oral health benefits. If you are less stressed, you may find yourself grinding your teeth less. In extreme cases, you may be able to avoid antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, which have a tendency to dry out the mouth. Plus, people who are stressed are less likely to make oral hygiene a priority in their lives.
Minimize Inflammation
Inflammation is also a stress response, as high stress levels can increase the production of cortisol. This can make the gums swell, which increases your gum disease risk. By helping you to relax, you'll also experience a lower stress response.
Improve Posture Did you know that posture and dental health are connected? Poor posture can affect your neck and head, which pushes out the jaw. This may ultimately impact the alignment of the teeth, which could cause temporomandibular joint disorder. Side effects may include jaw pain, headaches, uneven tooth wear, and even cracked teeth.
Promote Saliva Production
Saliva has a very important role in your mouth. It rinses off the teeth, removing bacteria and food debris. It also contains enzymes that begin the digestive process, breaking down food so that it is easy to swallow. If you suffer from dry mouth, saliva production will slow down, giving bacteria the chance to multiply.
Fortunately, yoga can help stimulate saliva production by introducing proper breathing techniques. Plus, postures that incorporate forward bends, inversions, and twists will also stimulate the salivary glands.
Yoga is one of many ways that you can improve your oral health, but never forget the importance of regular dental visits. Call us today to schedule yours.
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Yoga can give you a healthier body and mind, but did you know it can also improve your oral health? These wonderful benefits of yoga can leave you with a healthier mouth.
