Are you making regular exercise a priority this year? If so, good for you! Working out and making sure your body and overall health are in the best possible shape is one of the best forms of self-care. But have you considered how all that cardio and weightlifting might be putting your smile in danger? Read on to avoid these 3 oral health risks while getting into shape.
Oral Health Risk #1: Tooth Breakage & Damage
While lifting weights, you may not realize it, but you’re likely clenching your teeth. Although your focus may be on what you feel in your arms, legs, or back, excessive pressure on your pearly whites can lead to significant pain if you’re not careful.
In fact, you might accidentally break one or more of your teeth over time. This can result in a trip to the emergency dentist’s office for immediate restorative care.
Be mindful when weightlifting and wear a protective mouthguard. This barrier will prevent your teeth from touching and absorb the additional pressure you’ll place on them when focusing on building up your strength.
Oral Health Risk #2: Dehydration
Sweating isn’t necessarily a bad thing; however, it can be if you don’t stay hydrated. Dehydration can be dangerous to your overall health, negatively affecting your brain and heart. It can also create problems inside your mouth as well.
When the mouth is dry, bad bacteria can begin to grow and attack your tooth enamel and gum tissues. Without moisture and regular care, you can be left to deal with dental decay and periodontitis – bleeding and swollen gums.
Keeping a water bottle nearby is essential while working out, as you’ll need to replenish what your body is putting out. Not only will consuming plenty of water keep you hydrated and healthy, but it will ensure your salivary glands are doing their job – neutralizing harmful acids to keep your teeth and gums better protected.
Oral Health Risk #3: Believing Sports Drinks Are a Better Option
Reaching for one of the many sports drinks you can find on your grocery store shelves may be tempting, especially if the companies behind them claim it to be a safe and highly effective way to rehydrate.
Unfortunately, these flavorful beverages likely contain high amounts of sugar, which can wreak havoc on your pearly whites. While they may help restore some of your electrolytes, they might also make it easier for bacteria to eat away at your tooth enamel, causing cavities to form.
Instead, stick with water, as it will give your smile the protection it needs, all while keeping you hydrated.
Although the mantra “work smarter, not harder” may not be as effective in the gym, you can apply it to your oral health when looking for ways to take better care of your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Justin Geller is a dentist in Novi, MI, who has nearly three decades of experience working in the field, 20 of which he has spent at JMG Dentistry Family and Cosmetic Care. Offering preventive and even emergency dental care to individuals throughout the area, he offers recommendations that are designed to help you make take better care of your oral and overall health. If working out is one of your hobbies, and you want to make sure your smile is properly safeguarded, visit our website or call (248) 926-4030.