Dr. Heath’s children, Greg and Josh, on their family sailboat in 1997.

Dentist Topeka | Can Exercise Damage Your Teeth?

Topeka, Kansas Dentist

Exercise is important to good health, but can it have a detrimental effect on our teeth?  Studies have shown that exercise and fitness habits can result in an increase in dental decay and tooth erosion.  Exercise can impact our oral health in many ways, including:

Decreased Saliva Flow:  Breathing heavily through the mouth during exercise can result in a reduction in saliva and cause the mouth to dry out.  Saliva is filled with minerals that work to fight bacteria, protect tooth enamel, and prevent decay.  To prevent decay caused by a dry mouth, learn to breathe through the nose during exercise and hydrate with water before, during, and after your workout.  You can also brush your teeth before you exercise to reduce the presence of bacteria and plaque.

Jaw Clenching:  Athletes often clench their jaw when straining to lift weights.  This pressure can result in wear and even cracked teeth.  To protect teeth from the effects of clenching, consider using a mouthguard.  These can be purchased at most drugstores or sporting goods stores or our Topeka dentist can make a custom fitted mouthguard for you.

Consuming Sports Drinks:  Studies have shown that sugary sports drinks are up to 30 times more erosive to the teeth than water.  The citric acid they contain can soften the tooth enamel so much that even brushing can cause tooth damage.  Taking frequent, small sips of sugary liquids increases the chance of tooth decay.   Avoiding the use of sports drinks and hydrating with water instead can prevent these negative effects.  If you feel you must use sports drinks, don’t drink small amounts over an extended period of time, rinse your mouth with water afterwards, and avoid brushing immediately after consuming.

Contact our Topeka office to schedule your next preventative dental appointment.

Heath Family Dentistry

Phone: (785) 234-5410

Url: https://www.heathfamilydentistrytopeka.com/

2714 NW Topeka Blvd. Topeka, KS 66617

Cheyenna

Nothing but wonderful things to say about Dr. Heath. He is very patient and kind. He will walk you through every step and make sure you are comfortable the entire time. The office staff is very friendly and welcoming.

– Cheyenna W.

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Dentist in Topeka, KS

Location

Topeka, KS Dentist

2714 NW Topeka Blvd.
Topeka, Kansas 66617

Office Hours

Monday: 8am-5pm
Tuesday: 8am-5pm
Wednesday: 8am-5pm
Thursday: 7:30am-3pm
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed

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Dentist in Topeka, KS

Topeka KS Dentist

Dentist in Topeka
2714 NW Topeka Blvd.
Topeka, Kansas 66617

(785) 234-5410