Ask Anytime Fitness
I’ve heard that athletes tend to have a lot of cavities and dental problems. Why is this?
Exercising can be both good and bad for your dental health. Many weightlifters have a tendency to clench their jaw and grind their teeth while lifting. This can cause damage and lead to dental problems down the road. A good recommendation would be to wear a mouth guard while lifting heavy weight as a preventative measure. Also, breathing through your mouth during strenuous activity can dry your mouth and lead to increased bacteria.
Combining this with pre workouts, sports drinks, and other supplements high in sugar creates a perfect environment for dental erosion and cavities. However, it’s not all bad. Studies have shown that regular physical activity, even just three times per week, can help prevent gum disease. Exercising also helps to reduce your risk for health issues like diabetes and hypertension, which have been known to cause poor oral health.
If you have a question you would like the experts at Anytime Fitness in Washington to answer, email washingtonpa@anytimefitness.com.