Is Exercising Bad for Your Teeth? | Dentist in Lombard IL

How Exercise Impacts Your Dental Health

At Cater Dental of Lombard, we know that exercise is essential for maintaining overall health. However, did you know that your fitness routine might be affecting your dental health? Studies have shown that certain exercise habits can increase the risk of tooth decay and erosion. Here’s how exercise can influence your dental health and what you can do to protect your smile.

Dry Mouth

Heavy breathing during intense workouts can lead to dry mouth, as it reduces saliva production. Saliva is crucial because it contains minerals and enzymes that protect against decay-causing bacteria.

To combat dry mouth during exercise:

– Breathe through your nose as much as possible.
– Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.
– Brush your teeth before exercising to reduce the presence of bacteria and plaque.

Clenching Your Teeth

Many athletes clench their jaws during intense activities like weight lifting. This habit can wear down teeth and even cause fractures.

To protect your teeth:

– Consider wearing a mouthguard. Mouthguards are available at drugstores and sporting goods stores, or you can get a custom-fitted one from your dentist.
– We recommend that everyone participating in sports wear a mouthguard to safeguard their teeth.

Sports Drinks

While sports drinks are popular for hydration during workouts, they can be harmful to your teeth. These drinks are high in sugar and contain citric acid, which is 30 times more erosive to your teeth than water.

To minimize damage from sports drinks:

– Opt for water instead of sports drinks.
– If you do consume sports drinks, drink them quickly rather than sipping them over time, and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
– Be mindful that consuming sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks creates an acid attack on your enamel for about 30 minutes. Your teeth can only handle a few of these attacks daily, so it’s best to limit sugary snacks and drinks to meal times.

Maintaining Oral Health

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining your dental health, especially if you lead an active lifestyle.

Here are some tips:

– Brush twice daily and floss daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
– Visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and check-ups.
– Drink plenty of water after consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks to help neutralize acidity in your mouth.

By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can protect your teeth from the potential negative effects of exercise.

For more tips on maintaining good oral health or to schedule an appointment, please contact Cater Dental of Lombard today. Your smile is our priority, and we are here to help you keep it healthy and bright.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our office. As your trusted Dentist in Lombard IL, we are dedicated to providing you with the best care for your dental health.

Cater Dental of Lombard
Phone: (630) 932-0090
894 E. Roosevelt Rd.
Lombard, IL 60148