Healthy mouth, strong body: oral health and sports performance.

Caries, periodontal disease, dental erosion, trauma and pericoronaritis are some of the oral complications that various studies have found among athletes in all types of disciplines. There are different factors that cause them, so we are going to explain why it is essential to prevent and address these problems as soon as they arise so that they do not interfere with athletes' performance and, of course, their health.

Main causes of oral complications in athletes

Neglect of oral hygiene

Physical exhaustion after intense training sessions can cause athletes to unconsciously neglect basic hygiene habits such as brushing teeth at least twice a day and regular flossing. This is due to a need to prioritize rest and muscle recovery, as well as a general lack of awareness of how much weight oral health actually plays in their performance.

Diet rich in carbohydrates

It should be noted that the high consumption of carbohydrates, so common in the diet of athletes and necessary to maintain muscle glycogen stores, is a great source of energy during training and competitions. However, not choosing the right carbohydrates can facilitate the proliferation of bacteria. Cavities form precisely when sugars and carbohydrates remain in the oral cavity, allowing bacteria to convert them into acids that end up damaging tooth enamel.

Physical and emotional stress

Gingivitis and periodontitis are periodontal diseases that can be complicated by the physical and emotional stress that athletes are exposed to daily in their routines. The muscular tension generated by intense exercise and high cortisol levels alter both the immune system and the oral microbiota. A bacterial imbalance in the mouth makes it much easier for infections to develop.

Consumption of acidic beverages

Cases of dental erosion are very common among athletes, generally due to the consumption of energy drinks to stay hydrated or replenish electrolytes lost during exercise sessions. In addition to being rich in sugars, they contain acids that end up gradually wearing down dental enamel. The ideal is to stop consuming them, but certain precautions can also be taken, such as rinsing the mouth after each intake to neutralize the acids and minimize their contact with the teeth.

Dehydration

The intensity of exercise causes dehydration, so it is essential to drink water regularly. Lack of fluids reduces the production of saliva, which is responsible for keeping the oral cavity moist and neutralizing existing acids. In addition, the sympathetic nervous system can reduce the amount of immunoglobulin A in saliva during exercise, making bacterial proliferation easier. The mouth becomes more susceptible and thus increases the risk of suffering from any of the above conditions.

Discover our products for daily oral care

Maintain a healthy mouth with daily care routines.

See products

Oral health and sports performance

It is important to remember that pain or discomfort in teeth and gums can become persistent, affecting the concentration and even the motivation of athletes. This discomfort is negatively reflected in their performance, which is why it is so important to take care of oral health with a team of specialized dentists. In addition, when complications are not treated in time, they tend to worsen and lead to symptoms such as inflammation and fever, which make physical recovery more difficult.

In addition, there are psychosocial consequences. As with anyone, oral complications can affect the self-esteem of athletes, both because of the discomfort and the esthetic changes they may generate. This creates certain discomfort, anxiety and lack of self-confidence, reducing their ability to perform at their best.

Tips for oral health care of athletes

Adapted nutrient sources

Carbohydrate-rich foods are the basis of any athlete's diet especially before, during and after training, this helps to increase glycogen reserves and maintain energy levels necessary for physical activity. It is very important to adapt eating habits together with a medical team to maintain a balance that protects both oral health and sports performance, since in excessive amounts or without proper oral hygiene measures, it can become a risk factor for tooth decay, dental erosion and / or periodontal disease.

Constant hydration

Drinking water regularly before, during and after exercise helps to keep the body hydrated and to balance salivary flow. It is natural to lose large amounts of fluids through sweating, so take steps to replenish them as soon as possible. It is best to avoid energy drinks, although, if taken, the use of fluoride mouth rinses in the oral hygiene routine can help protect teeth from wear and erosion.

Periodic dental checkups

Regular checkups with sports dentistry professionals help detect problems early and prevent them from degenerating into even greater complications. Dentists who specialize in dealing with athletes provide guidance on best practices and will recommend the use of custom-fitted mouthguards to protect teeth, soft tissues and temporomandibular structures. All of this is key to reducing injuries in contact sports.

Many athletes are unaware that taking care of their oral health is not only a way to prevent problems in the mouth or the rest of the body, but to make sure they can perform at their best in their sport. Studies conducted at the Olympic Games have shown a high incidence of oral diseases among athletes who lack proper care.

Sports dentistry focuses on the prevention and treatment of orofacial injuries and other oral conditions, hence the need to integrate specialists into the sports medical team. It is important to make athletes aware of the importance of oral hygiene and regular check-ups both before and during the sports season.