There are quite a few things that you can do to stave off gum disease. Many of them are obvious; brush your teeth, floss away plaque, and see your dentist for biannual cleanings and checkups.

However, there are also preventive measures you can take that have nothing to do with hygiene. These are lifestyle changes that not only better your health, but your teeth as well. For example, regular exercise can do a lot to prevent some of the worst aspects of gum disease.

If the connection doesn’t seem clear, here’s a little more information about why that is.

Oral health encompasses more than just your teeth—it includes your gums, too! They cover the bones of your mouth and pearly whites, as well as provide a protective barrier against bacteria. By regularly maintaining a good dental routine, you can provide protection to both your teeth and gums. But what if you are noticing some negative changes in your gums? It’s important to not neglect any early signs of gum disease (periodontal disease) by believing it isn’t that big of a deal. Your dentist is here to bust four myths about gum disease so that misconceptions about it never will keep you from your best smile!