How to Protect Your Teeth While Exercising

Tuesday - September 20th, 2016

May is National Physical Fitness & Sports Month, and what better time to get out and get some exercise! With warmer weather, longer days, and the end of school coming up, it’s definitely time for fun in the sun. Just make sure your teeth are safe and sound, no matter the activity.

Wear a mouth guard in sports.

If you play a sport with a high risk of injury, like football, basketball, soccer or wrestling, make sure to wear a mouth guard every time you play. The American Dental Association estimates that mouth guards prevent more than 200,000 mouth injuries every year.

These are three types of mouth guards. Stock mouth guards come ready to wear; boil-and-bite mouth guards are softened and molded to your teeth; custom-fit mouth guards are made specifically for your mouth at your dentist’s office. The custom option tends to be the most comfortable and provides the best protection. Simply make an appointment with your dentist to learn more about this option.

Drink plenty of water.

Staying hydrated is essential for any type of exercise, but especially for protecting your teeth. Many athletes experience dry mouth, which is a lack of saliva. Without saliva, bacteria in the mouth can flourish, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. To counteract that, drink plenty of water before and after working out, and swish water around your mouth if it feels dry.

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