Maintaining physical fitness is essential for overall health, but have you ever considered the impact it might have on your teeth? Recent studies suggest that certain exercise habits can increase the risk of tooth decay and erosion. Here’s how your fitness routine might be affecting your oral health:

Reduced Saliva Production:

Heavy breathing through the mouth during exercise can decrease saliva flow, leading to dry mouth. Saliva plays a critical role in protecting your teeth—it fights bacteria, shields enamel, and prevents decay. To combat this, try breathing through your nose while exercising, and stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after your workout. Brushing your teeth before you exercise can also help by reducing plaque buildup.

Jaw Clenching:

It’s common to clench your jaw when lifting weights or exerting yourself, but this can wear down or even crack your teeth over time. Wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from damage. You can find mouthguards at most pharmacies, or visit our dentist in Sheboygan to have a custom-fitted mouthguard made for optimal protection.

Consuming Sports Drinks:

Many sports drinks are highly erosive, being up to 30 times more harmful to teeth than water. The citric acid and sugar in these drinks soften your enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to damage—even brushing immediately afterward can cause harm. Instead of sipping on sugary sports drinks, stick to water for hydration. If you do consume a sports drink, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait before brushing.

At Bloom Family Dental, we’re here to help you maintain your oral health. Contact us today to schedule your next preventive dental appointment with a trusted dentist in Sheboygan!