Now that December has arrived and 2024 is drawing to an end, an estimated three out of ten Americans is preparing to set themselves up for success in the new year with their resolutions. One popular goal is to improve your overall well-being by visiting the gym more frequently to build muscle, improve your heart health, or lose weight.
However, if you’re not careful, you might damage your teeth and gums in the process. Continue reading to learn about 3 tips for safeguarding your smile when you exercise!
Tip #1: Protect Your Grin
Many athletes have learned the hard way that you risk your oral condition when you participate in team sports or close contact activities, like martial arts. A single blow to the face can loosen or dislodge your teeth if it’s strong enough. Wearing a mouthguard redistributes the force of any injuries more evenly across your pearly whites so no single one receives the brunt of the damage.
Even if you plan to exercise solo, you might grind your teeth when lifting heavy weights or sprinting on the treadmill. Your dentist can provide a custom-fitted appliance to wear over your grin shield it from the added pressure of constantly clenching.
Tip #2: Drink More Water
Although chugging a sweet sports drink can give you an energy boost right before your workout, it’s not doing your teeth any favors. Not only are these beverages full of sugar that attract cavity-causing bacteria, but they are also typically highly acidic and can wear down your enamel.
To make matters worse, you’re more likely to breathe through your mouth when engaging in strenuous activities, which can dry it out and encourage germs to flourish. Drinking lots of water keeps your mouth moist and rinses away unwanted particles to prevent potential problems while keeping you hydrated so you can sweat more!
Tip #3: Establish Consistency
Practicing proper dental hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your smile no matter what activities you engage in. For instance, brushing and flossing twice daily regularly removes bacteria and plaque buildup that cause tooth decay and gum disease. When you clean your grin consistently, it’s better able to resist different types of damage.
It’s also a good idea to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning with your dentist every six months. This allows them to monitor your oral health so they can identify and address any areas of concern, like weakened enamel or bleeding gums, before they progress into more serious issues.
Thankfully, it’s easy to make these adjustments to your daily routine to keep your mouth looking and feeling its best!
About the Author
Dr. Julie Young has 23+ years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain their healthiest and most beautiful smiles. She earned her dental degree from the University of the Pacific, School of Dentistry in 1986 and has been enhancing her skills ever since. Today, she’s a valued member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Dental Association among other prestigious organizations, so you can trust that you’re in good hands. You can request an appointment on the website or call (415) 924-5300.
