Does Exercising Have Any Kind Of Impact On Your Oral Health?
Posted on: 1 June 2016
Exercising is good for you, especially your heart and brain health. Many say that it improves your overall health, too, but does that include your oral health? Is it possible to run your way to healthier teeth? Could it have a negative effect? Here's a look at how your oral health is impacted by the amount of exercise you do.
More Exercise, More Cavities
Unfortunately, exercise can have a negative impact on your teeth. According to a University Hospital Heidelberg dental school study, more exercise can lead to more cavities. Some of these cavities are due to the sports drinks that some people have to replace electrolytes; they are also full of sugar. Another issue is breathing with the mouth open.
Exercise affects the saliva and can lead to more bacteria in the mouth. This then causes bad breath, plaque build-up and tooth decay.
It is possible to avoid these risks by switching to water and breathing through your nose.
Reduce Gum Problems
That being said, there are also benefits to oral health by exercising. One of those is that the risk of gum problems is reduced. The whole body is toned, including the mouth. This is especially the case for those with a healthy BMI and a good endurance rate. Gum problems include ulcers and gum disease.
The benefit of exercise is that it keeps the whole body healthy. Inflammation is less of a risk, and that includes within the mouth. Inflammation often triggers most types of diseases. There are also more antibodies to help fight off infections.
More Likely to Follow a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Those who do exercise are more likely to have an overall healthier outlook on life. This means they follow a good oral hygiene routine on a daily basis, including brushing and flossing. A good hygiene routine is the difference between tooth problems and a healthy mouth.
You will also likely have a healthier diet. This means fewer sweet products on a daily basis. You may drink more water, too, which will help to limit the damage to your teeth and gums.
While there are studies that show exercising more can lead to more oral health problems, it's worth looking at the reason why. The way people breathe and the type of drinks they consume during and after will affect their oral health. Overall, exercise is good for you and can lead to a healthier mouth.
Talk to a professional like Barberio Frank DMD PC to learn more.
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