Maintaining oral health in sports among young athletes
Experts provided tips that parents of young athletes need to know to protect their oral health.
In a news report from USA Track & Field, the experts stressed that some practices that are recommended to maintain or improve athletic performance may not always align with beneficial oral health habits. For instance, the high sugar content and acidity of many sports beverages, the high-carbohydrate diets expected of athletes and even sports gummies can weaken the tooth enamel. Breathing through the mouth during physical exertion can also leave sugars on the surface of the teeth. The experts advised young athletes to use straws to consume sports beverages, regularly rinse their mouths with water to flush away residual sugars left in the oral cavity, avoid sports beverages after practice and wait 30 to 60 minutes after consuming sports beverages to brush their teeth. Partaking in several postpractice habits can also protect the enamel — including rinsing with water, using an enamel-strengthening mouthwash and chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate salivary flow.
Further, young athletes were urged to wear a mouthguard to avoid dental injuries, particularly those participating in contact sports. Athletes who have chipped or loose teeth, abnormal gum bleeding or tooth pain and discomfort should schedule an appointment with a dentist.
In addition to the athlete-specific suggestions, the experts emphasized that athletes should follow general oral hygiene habits such as brushing at least twice per day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once per day and visiting their dentist regularly.
Read more: USATF
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