When it comes to taking care of your health, you may think about eating a balanced diet and exercising. Working out is a great way to get your heart pumping and keep it strong, but did you know it may affect your mouth? It can seem odd how your fitness can influence your oral health, but it can in just a few ways. Continue reading to learn how it can and ways you can protect your grin.
Does Exercise Harm My Smile?
The act of exercising itself doesn’t harm your smile, but it’s the habits and risks that do so. Regularly working out is associated with a lower chance of gum disease, so continue with your regimen. But here is what can cause some damage to your teeth:
- Drinking Sports Drinks: These beverages are very acidic, which isn’t the best for your mouth. While they are great at replenishing electrolytes and helping you stay hydrated, the sugar and acids can erode your enamel. This leaves you more vulnerable to tooth decay. In a study by the Academy of General Dentistry, they found that all it takes is five days of consistent drinking to start seeing damage.
- Breathing Through Your Mouth: As you do rigorous exercise, you are likely to do some heavy breathing with an open mouth, causing it to become dry. This creates an environment where bacteria can linger around for longer and harm your teeth.
- Not Following Safety Measures: Injuries are a risk when it comes to exercise and playing sports. You can make a wrong move and get a blow to your face. You may end up with a chipped tooth or even knock it out completely!
How Can I Preserve My Oral Health When Working Out?
Thankfully, it’s easy to protect your smile while you are exercising. All it takes is some simple adjusting to your habits, and you can ensure that your teeth stay safe! First off, try sticking with water when working out. Cut back on the sports drinks, or you can drink natural coconut water for some flavor. Try your best to breathe through your nose. Not only will it help prevent your mouth from becoming dry, but it will also improve your airflow and relax your jaw. Lastly, wear a mouthguard if you know there’s a risk of a facial injury!
Even though your oral health can suffer a bit from habits you have when exercising, remembering these tips can help ensure that your smile doesn’t falter when you work out.
About the Practice
At Atrium Family Dental of New Lenox, we are here to help you take care of your oral health. With our expert team of dentists, we can monitor your mouth and ensure that it’s the best it can be. We are here for you when it’s time for your routine checkups and cleanings, so we track any changes and tackle any concerns. If you want to learn more about how you can care for your smile, schedule an appointment or call us at (815) 462-9990.