Protecting the Teeth During Exercise
Experts detailed how certain components of physical activity can impact oral well-being.
While certain aspects of physical activity — including mouth breathing, dehydration, sports drink consumption and snacking — may be harmful for oral health, making small adjustments can help protect the teeth and gums during exercise routines, according to a news article from FINE Magazine.
For instance, staying hydrated can counteract a dry mouth and boost saliva production. The experts cited in the article noted that saliva is capable of neutralizing acids in the mouth and remineralizing the enamel. However, consuming sports drinks, particularly with frequent sipping and in combination with a dry mouth, can also expose the teeth to sugars over prolonged periods of time and can raise the likelihood of dental decay. Therefore, the experts encouraged individuals to hydrate with plain water or alternate between sports drinks and water to rinse away sugars and acids that have settled on the teeth. Those who opt for sports drinks should avoid brushing their teeth immediately after consuming the beverages to prevent unnecessary mechanical wear.
The experts suggested that individuals consuming carbohydrates during physical activity rinse their mouths with water immediately afterward to prevent oral bacteria from using the compounds to produce acids. They underscored that dental issues can also interfere with physical activity and lead to chronic diseases. For example, oral health issues can disrupt sleep and eating, thereby reducing the motivation to exercise and adversely impacting individuals’ quality of life. In addition, recent research has uncovered a link between periodontal disease and diabetes and cardiovascular disease.