New Study &
Expert Commentary:
Running May Be
Ruining Your Smile
It's no secret that running can be great for the mind,
body and soul, but what it's doing to our teeth may surprise you. According to
the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, a
new study is linking an increase in cavities and tooth
erosion among runners and athletes who train for long periods of time,
multiple days a week.
"Expending that much energy requires an increase
in carb and sugary food intake like sports drinks and protein
bars," explains Dr. Jessica Emery, cosmetic dentist and
owner of Sugar Fix
Dental Loft Chicago. "Sugar feeds the decay causing bacteria.
Our defenses against this bad bacteria live in our saliva. Because of this
sugary food, the dry mouth that comes with the way we breath during our
exercise and the dehydration that comes with sweating for long periods of time,
these make a perfect trifecta for cavities."
There are a few things you can do to combat this.
- Always drink plenty of water
before, during and after your workouts. If you are a distance runner,
consider increasing your salt intake which allows your body to retain
water.
- Carry some sugar free gum to
pop in right after you finish your run. This will get rid of the dry mouth
and allow your saliva glands to start working again.
- Continue to brush and floss
regularly and if you are experiencing increased sensitivity or pain, see
your dentist immediately.
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