DON’T NEGLECT YOUR GNASHERS
New research suggests endurance athletes’ dental health isn’t up to scratch…
As endurance athletes, we recognise the benefits of fuelling by a variety of energy products, be it drinks, blocks, gels or bars. This is great for delivering high-intensity efforts. But, says a recent study involving German athletes, it’s not so great for dental health.
Eighty-eight competitive and 57 amateur athletes were recruited for oral analysis with both groups showing signs of gingival inflammation. This is the part of the gum around the base of the tooth and stems from plaque and tartar remaining on the teeth. Overall, quick science though, the competitive group’s state of oral play was worse than the amateur athletes. It’s impossible to pinpoint why but, understandably, fingers were pointed at the high sugar products athletes consume by the bucketload.
Sugary supplements are essential for many endurance athletes, but dental hygiene can be improved by: brushing twice daily for at least 2mins; brushing your tongue; flossing; eating crunchy vegetables; seeing your dentist at least twice a year; and drinking plenty of water.