Your Dentist Says Go Easy on the Sports and Energy Drinks

When you’re spending all afternoon at practice, it’s pretty easy to refuel with sports drinks. They’ve got enough electrolytes to replace the ones you lost while working out. They give you a nice energy boost to help you give it your all on the field. But just how healthy are they? While they might be good for your body, your dentist says sports and energy drinks aren’t that great for your teeth. Keep reading to learn why.

What Do Sports Drinks Do to Your Teeth?

Sports and energy drinks are not only high in sugar, but are incredibly acidic too. This means that they can unleash double damage to the teeth and cause problems such as:

• Cavities
• Gum disease
• Eroded enamel resulting in sensitivity

Are Athletes at a Greater Risk for These Problems?

People who play sports are generally more at risk for developing dental problems due to sports drinks for a few reasons:

• Sugar consumption: Many sports drinks contain lots of sugar to provide energy, but sugar is bad for teeth.
• Acidity: Energy drinks typically are acidic enough to wear down tooth enamel.
• Frequent exposure: If you consumed these drinks in a quick gulp, it wouldn’t do much harm to your teeth. However, most athletes sip constantly throughout the game, bathing their teeth in sugar and acid several times, increasing the damage done.
• Dehydration: Dry mouth caused by dehydration can increase your chance of tooth decay. Saliva helps wash away bacteria and neutralizes the acids in foods and beverages. If you don’t have enough saliva, energy drinks can wreak even more havoc on your teeth.

Can Dental Problems Affect Athletic Performance?

Did you know that your dental health can actually impact your performance on the field? This is because several symptoms of oral health problems, such as trouble eating or sleeping, chronic pain or inflammation, and infection can make training and playing a lot more difficult. In addition, if your confidence is affected by declining oral health, that can also negatively affect your performance.

How Can I Take Good Care of My Oral Health?

Here are some ways for athletes to make sure their teeth stay in good shape:

• Hydrate with water instead of energy drinks.
• If you’re going to consume sports drinks, use a straw. The liquid will bypass the teeth and cause less damage.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
• Floss every day before bed.
• Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from sports injuries.
• Visit your dentist every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning.

As an athlete, you care about how healthy your body is. Make sure to dedicate that same level of care to your teeth.

About the Practice

At Dental Dynamics in Skokie, IL, all of your needs can be met under one roof. Our team is made up of a general dentist, periodontist, orthodontist, and even an oral surgeon. No matter what services your mouth needs, we can provide them, including prescribing mouthguards to protect your pearly whites while you train and play. To contact us, click here or call (847)-329-9801.