A healthy, confident smile is, more often than not, a sign of a healthy body and this is for one very good reason. Keeping the teeth and gums in peak condition and maintaining good oral health is directly linked to our overall well-being.
Research has clearly shown that poor oral health has a negative impact on the body as any bacterial infections in the mouth can spread. Physical performance can be impaired by the presence of tooth decay or gum disease as:
- Dental pain and discomfort can affect concentration levels
- Decreased appetite can cause fatigue and lower stamina
- Lowered energy and concentration levels increase the risk of injury
Athletes have an increased risk for oral disease and trauma because physical exercise can dehydrate the body. This, in turn, can cause dry mouth which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
To protect the teeth and gums from accidental damage it is worthwhile having a custom-made mouthguard fitted by the dentist as cracked, chipped and broken teeth are among the most common of sports injuries, many of which can be easily avoided by taking proper precautions.
Read more about how dental health can affect athletic performance at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/poor-dental-health-could-be-impacting-your-athletic-performance/