A fairly popular resolution people make for the new year is to start working out. After all, being consistent with it and eating healthy can boost your overall well-being. But did you know that exercising can spell trouble for your smile if you aren’t careful? While it’s not the act itself that does, it’s rather some habits you may do during it. Here’s what you need to know and how to protect your oral health.
What Can Exercise Do to Affect My Smile?
As was mentioned above, working out isn’t bad for your grin. In fact, it can be beneficial as it can reduce your risk of gum disease! Some habits you have may be the problem, such as:
- Clenching Your Teeth: During strength training or another intense exercise, you may clench your jaw. This can lead to increased wear, but also soreness in the muscles in your face.
- Breathing Through Your Mouth:Hard workouts may leave you panting for air, so you may breathe through your mouth faster and more heavily. This can make it dry and reduce your saliva production, meaning you’ll have a harder time washing away harmful bacteria.
- Sports Drinks: These types of beverages can replenish your electrolytes, but they are full of sugar and acidic. Both of these double-team your enamel, weakening it and causing decay over time.
How Can I Protect My Smile While I Work Out?
While exercise can cause problems for your oral health if you aren’t careful, many of the issues above are easily preventable! All it takes is building the right routine, so here are simple tips you can follow.
- Wear a mouthguard while you lift or when you know you’re at risk of facial blows. That way, the appliance can absorb the pressure and leave your teeth in great shape.
- Be conscious about breathing through your nose and do breathing exercises. These can help lower your blood pressure, but also increase your lung capacity.
- Drink water as it’s gentle, hydrating, and effective at washing away bacteria. If you want some flavor, coconut water can be a great alternative as well.
- Brush and floss twice a day to remove plaque that can cause dental problems.
You should also keep up with consistent visits to your dentist. They will be able to monitor any changes to your smile, catching red flags while they are minor and giving you the prompt treatment you deserve. That way, you can exercise without worry and keep you and your grin in great shape.
About the Practice
At Atrium Family Dental of New Lenox, you benefit from a skilled team of dentists who look after you and your teeth. We are happy to help the local community feel the best about their smile with preventive care. With checkups and cleanings, we can spot oral health issues while they are small and avoid them from getting worse. If you’re due for your semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (815) 462-9990.