There’s no question that regular exercise is great for your body and mind. It helps strengthen your heart, boost your mood, and support overall wellness. However, while working out benefits most areas of your health, it can have some surprising drawbacks when it comes to your teeth and gums.
Understanding how exercise affects your oral health — and how to prevent problems — can help you stay fit without compromising your smile.
Dry Mouth from Heavy Breathing
When you work out, especially during intense cardio sessions, you tend to breathe more through your mouth than your nose. This can quickly dry out your mouth, reducing saliva flow. Saliva plays a key role in washing away food particles, neutralizing acids, and protecting your enamel. A dry mouth allows bacteria to thrive, increasing your risk of cavities and bad breath.
To combat this, make sure to stay hydrated before, during, and after your workout. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva production and keeps your mouth clean and comfortable.
Sports Drinks and Sugary Beverages
Many people reach for sports drinks to stay energized and replenish electrolytes during exercise. Unfortunately, most of these drinks are high in sugar and acid — two things that can erode tooth enamel and lead to decay. Even “zero sugar” options often contain acidic ingredients that wear down the protective layer of your teeth.
If you need an electrolyte boost, try diluting your sports drink with water or using a sugar-free alternative. Rinsing your mouth with water after drinking these beverages can also help minimize the damage.
Jaw Clenching and Teeth Grinding
Some athletes and fitness enthusiasts unconsciously clench their jaws or grind their teeth while lifting weights or performing high-intensity workouts. This habit can cause enamel wear, tooth sensitivity, and even jaw pain over time. If you notice soreness in your jaw or find yourself clenching during exercise, try to relax your face and jaw muscles between sets. In some cases, a custom mouthguard can help protect your teeth during strenuous activity.
Risk of Dental Injuries
Contact sports and activities like basketball, football, or martial arts can put your teeth at risk of injury. Chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth are common results of unprotected impact. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard is the best way to safeguard your smile. A custom-made mouthguard from your dentist provides far better protection and comfort than over-the-counter versions.
Changes in pH Balance
Exercise can temporarily alter your body’s pH levels, making your saliva more acidic. This acidity can soften your enamel, especially if combined with dehydration or sugary drinks. To protect your teeth, avoid brushing immediately after a workout. Instead, rinse your mouth with water first and wait about 30 minutes before brushing to prevent enamel erosion.
Exercise should be part of a healthy lifestyle — and with a few mindful habits, it doesn’t have to harm your smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Sprague and Dr. Beller of Berkshire Dental Group offer personalized dental care to patients in the Broken Arrow community, including preventive, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry. We’re dedicated to helping patients protect and maintain their oral health through every stage of life. Whether you’ve experienced a sports-related injury or just need a routine checkup, Berkshire Dental Group is here to keep your smile healthy and strong.
Call us at (918) 250-9528 or request an appointment online.