We all know that regular exercise is essential for staying healthy. But could it have a negative impact on your dental health? Recent studies have found that certain fitness habits may contribute to an increased risk of tooth decay and enamel erosion. Let’s explore how exercise can influence your teeth and what you can do to protect them.

Dry Mouth

Heavy breathing during intense workouts, especially through the mouth, can lead to dry mouth. Saliva plays a critical role in protecting your teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away harmful bacteria. When your mouth is dry, you’re more susceptible to decay-causing bacteria. To prevent dry mouth, try to breathe through your nose as much as possible during exercise, and stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after your workout. Also, brushing your teeth beforehand helps reduce the presence of plaque and bacteria that can cause decay.

Clenching Your Teeth

If you’re lifting heavy weights or engaging in high-intensity exercises, you may unknowingly clench your jaw. Clenching can wear down the enamel and even lead to tooth fractures over time. Wearing a mouthguard can help prevent this damage. You can find standard mouthguards at most sports stores, but for optimal protection, we recommend getting a custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist in Edmond.

The Impact of Sports Drinks

Many people turn to sports drinks for hydration and energy during workouts. However, these beverages are packed with sugar and are 30 times more erosive to your teeth than water. The high citric acid content in sports drinks softens tooth enamel, which increases the risk of decay, especially if consumed over a prolonged period. To minimize the risk, opt for water over sugary sports drinks. If you do consume a sports drink, try to finish it quickly and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

When you eat or drink something sugary, your mouth produces acids that attack your enamel for about 30 minutes. Our teeth can handle a few of these acid attacks each day, typically during meals. However, sipping sugary drinks throughout the day creates a constant acid bath for your teeth. To protect your smile, consume sugar or carbohydrates in one sitting rather than spreading it out, and drink plenty of water afterward to help neutralize acidity.

Maintaining Oral Health

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining a healthy smile, especially if you lead an active lifestyle. Your dentist in Edmond can help identify and address any issues before they become major problems. Contact Creative Edge Dentistry today to schedule your next appointment and keep your teeth in peak condition!