You need to strengthen your heart. You want to improve your sleep. You are trying to control your weight. There are plenty of reasons to be more active and exercise. Here’s one to add to the list: you want to keep your smile healthy and strong.

You may be wondering how working out your muscles can possibly impact your mouth. Read on to find out more about the connection and why you should do your best to keep moving.

Reduce Your Risk of Gum Disease

Recent studies have found that those who exercise regularly are significantly less likely to have gum disease than those who do not exercise often. In fact, non-smokers leading an active lifestyle were more than 50 percent less likely to have this serious gum infection. Although researchers can’t say for certain that lack of exercise is a direct cause of gum disease, it looks like there is a strong link between the two.

A person who doesn’t exercise regularly isn’t necessarily practicing healthy self-care. It stands to reason that they may also falter in other areas of self-care such as oral hygiene, causing gum disease and other issues.

Fortify Your Body Against Inflammation

When you are more active, you get your blood pumping. Your body becomes trained to function optimally, and blood flow is improved throughout the body. This benefits basically all systems but your digestive system in particular. Bowel movements as well as nutrient absorption are much easier and more productive; as a result, your body is able to use vitamins and minerals from food more efficiently. For instance, calcium can be properly digested to strengthen your teeth and bones.

Plus, improved circulation helps organs and tissues resist infection and inflammation. As the very first part of your digestive system, your mouth also benefits from better blood flow because the gum tissues are better able to stay strong against inflammation-causing bacteria.

So, the next time you’re debating whether you should go to the gym or not, remember that exercise isn’t just good for your figure. It helps your body and mouth in the long term, and it’s worth taking the time and effort so that you can keep smiling!