Working out and getting in shape are at the top of the list for many individuals who set New Year’s Resolutions. While there is nothing wrong with wanting to lose weight and be healthier, it’s essential to keep in mind that specific exercises can negatively affect your smile. Before starting your gym routine of lifting weights and high-intensity cardio, consider how to avoid dental injuries along the way.
Wear a Mouthguard to Protect Your Teeth
Tightening your jaw muscles each time you lift weights may seem helpful, but it actually wears down your teeth and places unnecessary pressure on your temporomandibular joints (TMJs). The more you do this, the greater the damage to your smile.
Ask your dentist about a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth and reduce jaw pain. The pressure will transfer to the cushioned barrier between your arches, bearing the weight that once landed on your pearly whites.
Breathe Correctly
Learning how to inhale and exhale correctly is essential. Athletes must learn to do this to sustain energy and avoid passing out or cramping. It’s also necessary to prevent dry mouth, a common condition that allows bacteria to accumulate and damage teeth and gums.
Although it may be easier to breathe in through your mouth, practice inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. This will protect your smile from harmful particles while keeping you upright and breathing well during workouts.
Trade Sports Drinks for Water
Fruity, flavorful sports drinks may claim to restore electrolytes and boost energy, but they often contain high sugar and are acidic. This means that the more you drink and allow the contents to sit on your teeth, the greater your risk of developing tooth decay and cavities. Acidity can also break down enamel, leading to sensitivity.
Instead of reaching for your favorite energy or sports drink, opt for plain water. While it may not be as exciting, it remains the most critical component of a good workout. It not only keeps you hydrated but also supports salivary gland production, helping flush your mouth and neutralize harmful acids.
As you prepare to enter the gym or go for a run, think about how you can take proper care of your smile so that you like everything you see the next time you look in the mirror.
About the Author
Dr. Les Latner is one of fewer than 10 dentists to have earned accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and a mastership from the Academy of General Dentistry. Providing efficient dental care to residents and those in nearby communities, he also offers same-day appointments for those experiencing severe tooth pain. If you have a facial injury, contact us at (310) 765-7441 to speak with a member of our team.