Exercising regularly is fantastic for your overall health, but there’s one aspect often overlooked: the health of your teeth and gums. If you’re guilty of neglecting your dental health, you’re not alone. In fact, a surprising number of elite athletes experience the same issue.
A study conducted at the University College London Eastman Dental Institute discovered that the dental health of many Olympic athletes was alarmingly poor. Their oral health was even comparable to that of people living below the poverty line in disadvantaged areas.
Tooth and gum problems affecting performance
The study, which took place during the 2012 Olympics in London, involved over 300 Olympians participating in 25 different sports. A staggering 55% of the athletes were found to have dental caries, more commonly known as tooth decay. In addition to this, more than 40% of the athletes had caries that had already penetrated into the dentine, resulting in irreversible damage.
Gum disease was also prevalent, with over 75% of the athletes showing signs of gingivitis—the early stage of gum disease. Moreover, 15% of these athletes had already developed periodontitis, a gum infection that cannot be completely reversed.
According to the study, 18% of the athletes admitted that their poor dental health negatively impacted their athletic performance. Researcher Ian Needleman explains the importance of dental health for both well-being and peak performance: “It is amazing that many professional athletes – people who dedicate a huge amount of time and energy to honing their physical abilities – do not have sufficient support for their oral health needs, even though this negatively impacts on their training and performance.”
The effects of inflammation on health
Even if you’re not a professional athlete or just like to stay active during the weekends, don’t underestimate the importance of maintaining good dental health. Inflammation that arises from teeth and gum issues can wreak havoc on your overall health, no matter how fit you may appear to be.
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to harmful stimuli, such as bacteria, damaged cells, or irritants. In the case of poor dental health, the inflammation may start in the mouth but can quickly spread throughout the body, potentially leading to a variety of illnesses and chronic health issues.
Some of these health conditions related to poor oral health include:
- Cardiovascular disease: Inflamed gums can lead to hardened arteries and other heart problems.
- Respiratory infections: Bacteria from infected teeth and swollen gums can travel to the lungs, causing infections such as pneumonia.
- Diabetes: Gum disease can increase blood sugar levels, making it more difficult for people with diabetes to manage their condition.
- Pregnancy complications: Pregnant women with periodontitis are at a higher risk of delivering preterm, low birth weight babies.
Tips for maintaining good oral health
To avoid the negative consequences of poor dental health, follow these simple yet effective tips to keep your teeth and gums in the best shape possible:
- Brush regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
- Floss daily: Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline.
- Eat a balanced diet: A well-balanced diet can help support your oral health. Limit your intake of sugary snacks and drinks, as these can increase your risk of tooth decay.
- Drink plenty of water: Drinking water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria from your mouth. Tap water, which contains fluoride, can also help to strengthen your teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Schedule routine check-ups with your dentist every six months, or as recommended by your dental professional. Regular visits can help to detect problems early and prevent them from worsening.
By incorporating these simple habits into your daily routine, you can ensure that your teeth and gums stay as healthy as possible. In turn, this can help to enhance your overall health and athletic performance.
Remember, it’s important not to neglect any aspect of your health, including dental health. By prioritizing your oral hygiene, you can achieve not only a winning smile but also a healthier, more successful life – both on and off the playing field.
