SPORTS DENTISTRY

Sports Dentistry is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of dental injuries and oral diseases associated with sports and physical exercise.

How does it affect oral health and athletic performance?

The condition of the mouth is often considered a reflection of the body: a healthy mouth contributes to a healthy body that functions correctly and efficiently. On the contrary, an unhealthy mouth can affect athletic performance in various ways:

- Poor oral health influences your quality of life and well-being, crucial factors for good athletic performance.

- Cavities and periodontal disease contribute to inflammation and infections in the body, negatively impacting athletic performance.

- Malocclusion can affect posture and walking style, increasing the risk of injuries.

- Emergencies such as an abscess, pain, or the eruption of a wisdom tooth before an event can decrease performance or prevent participation. To avoid this, treatment should be immediately performed after an early diagnosis.

How can sports affect oral health?

- Sports drinks and supplements with high levels of acids and sugars can cause cavities and increase the risk of dental erosion.

- Dental traumas can occur frequently when participating in contact or combat sports without proper protection.

- Dehydration and stress can lead to dry mouth, erosion, and bruxism, negatively affecting oral health.

- In water sports, the low pH of pool water can cause damage to tooth enamel.

It is, therefore, crucial to implement strategies to counteract these situations.