Now that December has arrived, many people are looking ahead and asking how they can set themselves up for success in the new year. One popular resolution is to spend more time at the gym to improve your heart condition, build muscles, or lose weight.
However, you could potentially harm your smile if you’re not careful about how you exercise. Continue reading to learn about 3 oral health issues that can happen when you work out and how to avoid them!
Concern #1: Clenching Teeth
Lifting weights can benefit your body in many ways. Not only does it bulk up your muscles, but it also can increase your metabolism to burn more calories, lubricate your joints to protect them from injury, improve your heart rate by lowering blood pressure, and increase bone density.
Unfortunately, it might also lead to chipped or broken teeth. Many people tend to clench their teeth together when struggling to pull or lift a heavy weight, which puts additional pressure on your pearly whites. This can wear down your enamel, increasing your vulnerability to tooth decay, chips, cracks, or other injuries. Your dentist can provide a custom-fitted mouthguard to safeguard your smile from grinding.
Concern #2: Mouth Breathing
Did you know that saliva is your mouth’s natural defense system? It has a neutral pH to counterbalance potential acid damage and also rinses away food debris, bacteria, and other plaque-forming particles. Germs can thrive in dry conditions and contribute to dental issues like cavities or gingivitis.
Many people huff air through their mouths during periods of intense physical or aerobic activities and cause dry mouth. You can prevent it by taking conscious breaths through your nose, which increases your lungs’ oxygen absorption and lowers blood pressure. It also keeps your mouth closed so it remains moist enough to prevent potential problems.
Concern #3: Energy Drinks
If you’re struggling to find the motivation to workout, you might feel tempted to down a Red Bull or other similar drink that temporarily enhances your focus, increases electrolytes, and boosts your energy levels. While these might enhance your endurance, they can also wreak havoc on your smile.
Most energy drinks are full of sugar, which attracts enamel-eroding bacteria that can hurt your grin. If you need to rehydrate mid-workout, water is a great way to replenish your body while preserving your oral health. You might even enjoy natural coconut water, which has no additives but has anti-inflammatory properties and can help restore electrolytes and balance glucose and insulin levels.
Making a few slight adjustments to the way you exercise can keep your smile healthy while you tone your physique!
About the Practice
At Metro Park Dental Arts, you benefit from a team of dentists who share 40+ years of combined experience helping people improve their dental conditions. They work together to offer a full array of services and welcome patients of all ages, so you and your family receive the same top-quality care. Then, they take the time to learn your unique concerns and goals so they can provide tailored treatment plans to address them. If you’re worried about your grin and need a checkup or a mouthguard, you can request an appointment on the website or call (479) 845-1191.