Before you panic, just know that it’s not bad to exercise on a regular basis. In fact, maintaining this habit can actually do wonders for your overall health. However, researchers have found that lifting weights and performing cardiovascular activities can pose some challenges for your oral health. To learn about the impact exercise can have and what you can do to prevent a dental emergency, continue reading!
Exercise Induced Changes in Your Saliva
During an intense workout, saliva production decreases. This is important, given that saliva helps to maintain moisture in your mouth and keep oral bacteria growth under control. The less saliva production there is, the lower the pH level, making your mouth more acidic. This can encourage the demineralizing of your teeth and contribute to gum inflammation.
Other Challenges to Your Oral Health
Here are two other factors that can impact your oral health when you’re exercising:
Drinking Sports Drinks
In 2018, sports drinks sales were well over $5 billion. While these products target athletes, the reality is they are typically high in simple sugars. The sugars attract oral bacteria that eventually turn into plaque if allowed to sit long enough. Coupled with already lower saliva levels, this can create an oral health nightmare.
Open Mouth Breathing
When performing intense exercise, it’s not uncommon to breathe through the mouth. This can dry out the mouth, reduce saliva flow and invite bacteria growth. In these situations, it helps to be more mindful of taking in air through the nose and deliberately slowing down your breathing.
The Benefits of Drinking Water
Water is essential to your health, as the body is comprised of around 80% of the wonderous liquid. It’s especially important to drink water when you’re exercising, as it will help to prevent a dry mouth and provide a way to hydrate your system in a manner that isn’t detrimental to your teeth and gums.
Why Exercise Shouldn’t be Given a Bad Rap
Exercise, when done right, can actually be an asset to your oral health. As a means of helping regulate your blood sugar levels, it can indirectly lower the risk of developing gum disease. Furthermore, people who exercise regularly are less likely to be smokers or consume alcohol, two activities that can be quite detrimental to one’s oral health.
By taking the proper precautions with your exercise routine, you can avoid having to pay a sudden visit to an emergency dentist in Scarborough, and you’ll be able to enjoy the absolute best in oral health!
About the Author
Dr. Gus Bal earned his dental degree from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Throughout a career that has spanned over two decades, he has taken a comprehensive approach to dentistry, so that he can meet the varied needs of his patients. Dr. Bal provides preventive and emergency dental care at Bal Dental Centre, and he can be reached for more information through his website.
