Can Exercise Damage Your Teeth? Here’s How It Can

Most people today want to have an Instagram body and heading to the gym is a popular and definite way to get in shape. Although strengthening your body is sure to improve your lifestyle, you might be surprised to know that an intense exercise in Willowbrook can damage your teeth. How is this possible? Your local dentist can explain the reasons your teeth can become injured and ways you can prevent this.

How Can Exercising Damage Your Teeth?

Whenever you perform intense workouts, your body needs oxygen to energize your muscles to keep it going. This requires you to control your breathing, but the way in which you breathe is important. If you breathe with an open mouth, you are more likely to get dry mouth.  

As you exercise, your saliva production is already significantly decreased and causes your mouth to dry out. Saliva is a necessary protective mechanism since it moderates the pH levels in your mouth. The dryer your mouth, the lower your pH level, and this can lead to acid build up on your teeth. This can allow for bacteria to develop as well.

You’ll most likely want to stay hydrated during the exercises, and most gyms offer sugary, sports drinks. These drinks decrease the pH more. In addition, clenching your teeth during workouts can wear down your enamel.

Are There Ways to Prevent Damage While Exercising?

Some of the ways you can prevent damaging your teeth during workouts in the long run is by doing the following:

Nose Breathing

Instead of opening your mouth and allowing it to dry faster, try to breathe through your nose in order to retain moisture. You’ll also significantly increase your lungs oxygen absorption capacity and help lower your blood pressure.

Hydrate with Water

Toss the sports drinks and replace them with bottled or even tap water. You’ll avoid the negative effects of sugary drinks while keeping yourself hydrated and energized. The only alternative you might consider would be coconut water, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps balance glucose/insulin levels.

Oral Appliance

You can always try wearing an oral appliance like a mouthguard for extra protection for your teeth, jaw, and neck/facial muscles. This can help with grinding or clenching as well.

Other than keeping your exercise habits in check, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups/cleanings can also improve your oral health. Exercising is great for your body, but you also want to keep a healthy smile along the way!  

About the Author

Dr. Brian Song, DDS practices dentistry at Song Dental, located in Willowbrook, IL, providing patients with comfortable, high-quality care. As a graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and member of the ADA, Dr. Song and his team can offer dental checkups, cleanings, and other preventive dentistry to help you stay healthy during your workouts. If you have questions, visit their website or call 630-655-8781.

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