No matter what sport you play, it’s a known fact that athletes take great care of their bodies. However, what you may not realize is that your intense training routine can take a toll on your teeth and overall oral health. Dental erosion occurs when acids wear away the protective enamel on your teeth, and it’s surprisingly common among athletes.
Why? Because everything from consuming sports drinks to breathing through your mouth can create the perfect storm for enamel damage. Over time, this can lead to tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and even cavities, issues that can sideline your smile.
Dental Erosion Cause #1: Diet & Nutrition
Sports drinks and energy gels might be the fuel you need to perform, but they’re often packed with acids and sugars. Even healthy foods like fruit smoothies or protein bars can be surprisingly acidic (and high in sugar). Acids soften tooth enamel and make it easier for erosion to occur, while sugar feeds decay. If you frequently sip or snack on these throughout the day to keep your energy up, your teeth are in constant contact with acid, which accelerates enamel wear.
Prevention Tip: Use a straw when consuming acidic or sugary products (to keep them from contact with your teeth), and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging softened enamel. Additionally, opt for water or low-acid electrolyte replacements whenever possible.
Dental Erosion Cause #2: Dehydration and Reduced Saliva
When you’re training hard, it’s easy to become dehydrated, which is bad news for your whole body—including your mouth. Saliva plays an essential role in neutralizing acids and protecting your tooth enamel. When saliva production drops due to dehydration or heavy mouth breathing during exertion, acid erosion can occur unchecked. Dry mouth also increases the risk of bacterial buildup, further increasing your potential for dental damage.
Prevention Tip: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after workouts. If dry mouth persists, try chewing sugar-free gum or using mouth rinses designed to stimulate your saliva flow.
Better Dental Health For the Win
Protect your smile like you protect your winning streak: stay hydrated, choose your fuel wisely, and schedule regular dental checkups to keep your teeth as strong as your game.
