4 Ways Athletes Can Guard Their Winning Smile

It might come as a surprise, but athletes often face a higher risk of oral health problems compared to non-athletes. Not only are they prone to sports-related injuries like dental trauma (injury to the mouth -including teeth, gums, lips, jawbone and tongue), but they can also be more vulnerable to issues like dry mouth and tooth decay. If you’re an athlete, here are some steps to safeguard your teeth on the field or court.

Always wear a mouthguard

When placed in the mouth, a mouthguard covers the palate and all chewing surfaces of the teeth. It helps reduce oral injuries, protects the hard and soft tissues in the mouth from fractures and lacerations, and prevents fractures and dislocations of the jaw.

Fortunately, more athletes are beginning to prioritise their oral health on the competitive pitch, where injuries are common. Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo started using a protective mouthguard after playing for VfB Stuttgart in the Bundesliga. Although its main purpose is to protect his teeth, Endo believes it helps him get into ‘game mode’ when playing for the Reds.

“When I was in Germany, I met a Japanese dentist who recommended the mouthguard for its performance benefits,” Endo told Sky Sports. Endo now wears it to protect his teeth and explains that it makes him feel like a fighter.

Wearing a mouthguard is essential for anyone participating in contact sports to avoid permanent damage to their teeth. Athletes involved in sports such as hockey, football, and rugby are at increased risk of tooth chipping or loss. Make it a habit to put on your mouthguard during your sports practices. If you wear a mouth guard and still sustain an unfortunate injury to your teeth, gums, or jaw, see your dental specialist or dentist immediately.

Avoid sugary sports drinks and stay hydrated

Have you ever experienced dry mouth while running or playing sports? This occurs when you breathe through your mouth excessively, leading to reduced saliva production. It’s a common issue for athletes. Unfortunately, dry mouth can also heighten your risk of tooth decay and gingivitis. Saliva is crucial in protecting your teeth and gums by neutralising mouth acids. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can help combat dry mouth during sports.

If you consume sugary sports drinks, drink water to rinse the sugar from your mouth.

Brush and floss daily

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice with fluoridated toothpaste and flossing once daily. Flossing should be done at least once daily, before you start brushing your teeth. This enables the removal of food debris from between your teeth before brushing it away.

Steps to properly floss your teeth:

1. Begin with a long piece of floss that can be wrapped around your middle fingers, leaving some space between them. Hold the floss with your thumb and index finger to guide it.
2. Gently slide the tightened floss between your teeth by pressing the side surfaces of the tooth, moving it up and down the gum line on both sides. Avoid flossing straight down to your gums, as this may cause injury.
3. Repeat this process on the rest of your teeth, using a clean section of floss each time. Don’t forget the farthest back tooth! Even without a tooth behind it, it’s important to floss around it.

Carrying a travel toothbrush and toothpaste is also a good idea, allowing athletes to conveniently brush after their meals. However, it is essential to remember to brush only 30 to 45 minutes after your meals and not immediately to prevent enamel erosion.

Regular dental check-ups

Dental check-ups are crucial for athletes. They allow early identification and treatment of dental issues that could otherwise worsen and impact athletic performance. Dentists can also guide you to reduce injury risks and maintain optimal oral health. Therefore, remember to visit your dental specialist or dentist at least twice a year for a check-up.

With these tips, you are on your way to guard your winning smile, on and off the court!