100 Worcester Street, Suite 50 | Grafton, MA 01536

Oral Health Tips for Athletes

Young male athlete smiles with a sports mouthguard while playing flag football

If you’re an athlete, prioritizing your physical fitness and overall well-being is likely second nature. But do you take care of your oral health? Oral health can have a significant impact on your overall health.

No matter what sport you play or how advanced of an athlete you are, maintaining good oral health is crucial. Below, we share oral health tips to keep your smile in top shape!

  1. Protect Your Teeth with a Custom Mouthguard
  2. Contact sports, like football or lacrosse, can put your teeth at risk of injury. To protect your teeth from trauma, invest in a custom mouthguard. Unlike generic mouthguards, a custom one is designed to fit your mouth perfectly, providing optimal protection against impact. With a custom mouthguard, you can focus on your game with confidence.

  3. Stay Hydrated
  4. Hydration is vital for athletes, not just for physical performance but also for oral health. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva production, a natural defense against tooth decay and gum disease. When you’re dehydrated, saliva production decreases, so be sure to sip water throughout your workouts and replenish your body’s fluids after playing a sport.

  5. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Habits
  6. Brushing and flossing is fundamental for oral health for everyone. However, athletes may have higher carb intake, which can lead to tooth decay. Along with brushing and flossing, athletes could also incorporate mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth.

  7. Limit Sports Drinks and Energy Bars
  8. Sports drinks and energy bars are often consumed by athletes for quick energy and hydration. However, many of these products contain high sugar, which can be detrimental to your oral health. It’s best to opt for water or sugar-free sports drinks whenever possible and choose nutritious snacks.

  9. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
  10. Between games and practice, it can be easy to miss scheduled visits. But regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health. Visits to the dentist can help identify and address any dental problems early on, preventing them from affecting your performance or causing long-term damage.

Athletic Mouthguards in Grafton, MA

Whether you play a sport leisurely or are dedicated to practicing every weekend, it’s essential to protect your teeth from wear and tear. At Grafton Dental Care, our team can help protect your smile with a custom athletic mouthguard so you can continue being an athlete and avoid emergencies. Contact us today to schedule your visit!

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