Your Metabolism Is Impacting Your Teeth

Metabolism is the workhorse of the body—the energy force that sustains our every breath. Our bodies work hard to break down nutrients from the food we eat to produce the energy needed for us to live and function. The laws of physics confirm that energy cannot be created or destroyed—only transformed. This simply means that the energy we consume is the energy we exert. However, that connection is sometimes forgotten.

Metabolism helps regulate immune function and hormones, both of which have widespread effects on the body. Even slight changes in hormone levels can trigger significant, sometimes catastrophic, shifts in health. A poor diet deprives the body of essential nutrients, but even with a nutrient-rich diet, poor metabolism can prevent proper absorption of vitamins and minerals. When the body lacks the nutrients it needs, it goes into survival mode, extracting vitamins and minerals from the bones and teeth instead. Poorly mineralized teeth become more susceptible to acid attacks and more prone to decay and cavity formation.

Poor metabolism can also lead to systemic inflammation, which weakens the immune system, directly impacting gum health. Bleeding is a sign of inflammation. If brushing or flossing causes pain or bleeding, it is a telltale sign of inflammation and infection in the gum pockets. However, oral hygiene is not always the answer. Some patients swear they do everything right, yet at every exam, they have a new cavity or their gum health does not improve. This is why we stress the importance of feeding the body the nutrients it needs and focusing on restoring balanced metabolism and hormone function. Elevated cortisol levels or imbalanced thyroid hormones can increase gum inflammation and disrupt the body’s defense mechanisms.

One of the main contributors to cavities, especially when metabolism is out of balance, is sugar. The bacteria in the mouth break down sugar, releasing acid that attacks enamel and leads to cavity formation. However, saliva contains enzymes that help break down the bacteria and slow this process. When someone has dry mouth or reduced saliva production, bacteria can reproduce more quickly, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities. These issues are often seen in individuals with metabolic imbalances who experience dry mouth as a result.

Many factors affect metabolic health, especially in today’s environment. That is why it is essential to manage stress, nourish the body with nutrient-dense food, and focus on restoring balance to the gut and oral microbiome. Understanding your body is key to nurturing it.

Dr. Ranine Jaber enjoys the creativity involved in dentistry, particularly when it comes to improving the balance and architecture of teeth. She is dedicated to restoring both her patients’ smiles and oral health through a comprehensive and conservative approach. By combining a light touch with a wide range of options, Dr. Jaber provides personalized care that leads to the best results for each patient. She looks forward to helping you experience this for yourself. Natural Dental Partners (602-775-5120) is a health-centered dental practice in North Scottsdale. Visit  MyNaturalDentist.com for more information.

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