The Impact of Sports on Oral Health

Being involved in sports is widely recognised for its physical and mental health benefits, from improved cardiovascular fitness to enhanced mood and mental wellbeing. However, the relationship between sports and oral health is an aspect often overlooked. While physical activity itself does not directly harm oral health, certain factors associated with sports can have significant implications. 

Risk of Dental Injuries

Dental emergencies include accidents involving your teeth or mouth, toothache, bleeding, infections and swelling. Always seek dental treatment when a dental emergency occurs to improve the chance of saving the tooth or teeth and preventing infections occurring or becoming more serious. Contact sports pose a heightened risk of injuries. Players are susceptible to broken or knocked-out teeth, fractures, and soft tissue injuries due to collisions and falls. The use of mouthguards is crucial in these sports to mitigate such risks. Custom-fitted mouthguards provide the best protection, significantly reducing the likelihood of severe dental trauma. 

Dehydration and Dry Mouth

Intense physical activity can lead to dehydration, which can result in reduced saliva production. Saliva plays a vital role in maintaining oral health by neutralising acids, washing away food particles, and providing disease-fighting substances. Dry mouth can cause difficulties in tasting, chewing, swallowing, and speaking. It also can increase your chance of developing dental decay and other infections in the mouth. Athletes should ensure adequate hydration before, during and after exercise to maintain optimal saliva levels.  

Consumption of Sugary and Acidic Drinks

Energy/sports drinks are commonly consumed to replenish electrolytes and provide quick energy during and after strenuous activities. However, these drinks are often high in sugar and acidity, which can erode tooth enamel. Athletes should limit the intake of these drinks and consider healthier alternatives like water or sugar-free electrolyte solutions. 

Impact of Diet and Nutrition

The diet of athletes, aimed at improving performance, sometimes includes high carbohydrate and sugary foods, which can negatively affect oral health. Frequent snacking and carbohydrate consumption create an environment conducive to dental plaque biofilm formation and tooth decay. Athletes should maintain a balanced diet and practice good oral health habits to counteract these effects. 

Stress and Teeth Grinding

Athletes, particularly those in competitive sports, may experience high levels of stress, which can lead to teeth grinding (bruxism). There are two types of teeth grinding daytime and night time grinding that may have different underlying causes. Night time grinding seems to be driven by the central nervous system and may have a genetic component. Day time grinding seems to be more reactive to the stress points and anxieties of daily living. This condition can cause tooth damage, soreness of the jaw muscles and headaches. Treatments can include wearing a mouthguard, relaxation techniques and medication, if necessary and prescribed by your doctor.