It’s a well-known fact that men and women who run on a
regular basis tend to be slimmer and physically healthier than their
non-athletic counterparts. Running is wonderful for cardiovascular health, and
it helps to build lean muscle mass in the legs and back when done properly. But
have you ever considered how your regular workout might be affecting your
teeth? At JL Dental in Arnold, MO, Drs. Jonathan and Laura
Mears strive to help each and every one of their patients live healthy,
happy lives. Today, we’d like to talk about something we believe all athletes –
runners, in particular – should keep in mind to maintain healthy, beautiful
smiles.
New Study
Reveals Reason for Cavities in Runners
A recent study published in the Scandinavian Journal of
Medicine and Science in Sports discovered a link between frequent strenuous
exercise and an increased incidence of tooth decay and enamel erosion. The
German researchers found that the cause for the higher number of dental caries
in runners was twofold.
First, athletes
tend to breathe through their mouths when exercising heavily. This leads to a
more arid environment, leaving teeth to fend off attacks by acid-producing
bacteria without the protective barrier usually supplied by saliva. Secondly, a
diet that is high in carbohydrates – such as those found in energy bars and
sports drinks – has been found to contribute to cavities. Fortunately, with
proper home hygiene, plenty of water, and regular visits to our office, even
the most active athletes can enjoy
optimal oral health for life.
Schedule
Your Consultation Today
At JL Dental, we
understand that cardiovascular exercise is a fundamental component of a healthy
lifestyle, and we’d never dream of discouraging our patients from following a
doctor-approved fitness regimen. We would, however, like to remind those of our
patients who run on a regular basis that their smiles require extra care in
order to stay healthy. With general dentistry solutions designed with your
health, comfort, and convenience in mind, we can help you keep your mouth safe
from decay and disease. Contact
us today to schedule your next visit to our Arnold, MO family dental practice, and learn more about how diet
and exercise affect your oral health. We are also happy to serve patients from throughout
the surrounding areas, including Imperial,
Oakville, Barnhart, and beyond.
