Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your overall wellness. It can benefit virtually every aspect of your health, and it may even lower the risk of gum disease! However, there are two sides to every story. If you do not take proper cautions, your workout routine might actually endanger your smile and send you straight to your emergency dentist! How could it do so, and what steps can you take to minimize the risk of harm? This blog post provides helpful information.
Mouth Breathing
When your workout becomes intense, you may start to breathe through your mouth rather than your nose. That habit can dry your mouth and reduce saliva, which helps rinse away bacteria, neutralize acids, and protect enamel. Without enough saliva, you may face a higher risk of bad breath, cavities, and gum irritation.
You can lower this risk with simple habits. Drink water before, during, and after your workout. If your mouth feels dry after exercise, rinse with water and ask your dentist whether sugar-free gum or another saliva aid may suit your needs. You can also practice breathing through your nose as much as possible when you exercise.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks can help replace electrolytes after a hard workout, but they can also expose your teeth to sugar and acid. Acid can soften enamel, while sugar feeds bacteria that produce more acid. If you sip these beverages over a long workout session, your teeth may stay under acid attack for an extended time.
Water is often the best choice for routine hydration. If you need a sports drink, finish it within a short time rather than sip it slowly throughout your workout. Follow it with plain water, and wait at least 30 minutes before you brush so you do not scrub your enamel while it is temporarily soft.
Dental Injuries
A fall or collision could chip, crack, loosen, or knock out a tooth. This can happen in contact sports, but it can also occur in activities such as cycling, skating, or gymnastics.
You can protect your smile with a mouthguard, especially if your sport carries a risk of impact. A custom mouthguard from your dentist will fit better than a store-bought option, which can make it easier to breathe, speak, and keep the mouthguard in place. Plus, custom mouthguards provider a higher level of protection than their OTC counterparts.
Exercise should help your health, not harm your smile! Implement smart practices to keep your smile in great shape while you are training your body.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Bryan Griffith and Alex Hartgrove are proud to serve the Prestonsburg community as general and emergency dentists. Our team focuses on creating a patient-centered experience that prioritizes comfort. If you have questions about how to keep your smile safe and healthy, we would be pleased to speak with you. To request an appointment, contact Brookside Dental Care at 606-874-9311.