You’re unlikely to find a healthcare professional who will discourage regular exercise. Whether it’s going for a brisk walk each day, practicing yoga, lifting weights in the gym, or joining a spin class, moving your body is one of the best ways to lose weight and take better care of yourself. But have you ever considered how burning fat and strengthening your muscles can harm your oral health? It may sound impossible or even ridiculous, but the truth is that your teeth may be suffering more than you think. Read on to learn what kind of problems working out can cause and what you can do to keep moving while better protecting your smile.
When Toning Up Leads to Tooth Damage: How Exercise Can Cause Smile Damage
No matter how you choose to get in shape, your focus is likely to be on the parts of your body that need toning and strengthening. You may reach for gloves to protect your hands, cushioned sneakers for better running, or a weight belt to support your back while lifting, but what are you doing to protect your smile?
If you’re unsure why it’s necessary to safeguard your oral health when working out, here are a few potential problems that can occur:
- Dental Damage: When lifting weights, you may clench your teeth. As you do this over and over, the pressure placed on your pearly whites can cause chips, cracks, or other forms of breakage.
- Dry Mouth: Cardio, dance workouts, and even spin classes can make breathing through your nose seem impossible. Instead, it may be easier to inhale and exhale with your mouth. Unfortunately, this prevents adequate saliva production and can become an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and spread.
- Dental Decay: When less saliva is produced, the chances of harmful bacteria and plaque increase. If you are not consuming water regularly to stay hydrated and keep your mouth moist, you risk developing dental decay and cavities over time.
Are There Ways to Protect Your Mouth & Still Get Enough Exercise?
Yes! You don’t have to give up exercising to protect your oral health. Instead, you simply need to take necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of your smile, much in the same way you do your back, hands, and feet. You can do this by:
- Wearing a protective mouthguard that absorbs excess pressure placed on your teeth during a workout
- Drinking lots of water to keep your body hydrated and your saliva production running at full speed
- Giving up sports or energy drinks that contain sugars and acidic ingredients that can damage your teeth and gums
- Practicing breathing through your nose, as it can lower blood pressure and prevent dry mouth
Knowing how to properly protect your teeth and gums while exercising will give you the best chance of achieving your goal weight, all while embracing a healthy and damage-free smile.
About the Practice
Marvel Dental in Midlothian is pleased to have a team of dentists and professionals with years of proven experience in various areas of dentistry. We not only prioritize the health and well-being of every patient but also use the best technologies to deliver a first-class experience. Apart from the detailed treatment plans and successful results we provide, our dentists are here to offer helpful tips designed to minimize oral damage in daily life. If you want to safeguard your smile while playing sports or at the gym, visit our website or call (682) 772-3072.