High-performance sports place high demands on the body – and can also have an impact on dental health. In fact, studies show that top athletes suffer from dental problems more frequently than expected.
A publication in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (2014; doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2014-093804) describes that dental problems occur surprisingly often in competitive athletes.
At the Olympic Games in London, toothache was actually one of the most common health problems among the athletes. Around 30 percent of medical consultations during the Games were related to toothache – the second most common reason for doctor visits.
Dental problems among top athletes are widespread
In surveys, about 18 percent of athletes stated that toothache could impair their athletic performance. At the same time, almost half of the athletes reported not having visited a dentist in the past year.
Other scientific studies also confirm this observation.
The researcher Ian Needleman of the Eastman Dental Institute in London analyzed a total of 39 studies on the dental health of top athletes. The results show that dental problems occur very frequently in this group:
• Between 15 and 75 percent of athletes suffer from caries
• Up to 15 percent have signs of periodontitis
• 36 to 85 percent show tooth enamel erosion
These figures illustrate that oral health is not optimal for many athletes.
Why intense exercise can put a strain on teeth
Several factors can contribute to high-performance sports influencing dental health.
An important point is a dry mouth during intense physical exertion. Due to high physical activity and the associated dehydration, saliva production can be significantly reduced.
However, saliva plays an important role in dental health. It helps to:
• neutralize acids in the mouth
• protect tooth enamel
• reduce bacteria
When less saliva is present, the teeth lose part of their natural protective mechanism.
At the same time, many athletes cover their high energy requirements with carbohydrate-rich products such as energy drinks, sports drinks, or energy bars. These often contain sugar and acids that can further strain the tooth enamel.
The combination of dry mouth conditions and frequent consumption of sports drinks can therefore increase the risk of caries and dental erosion.
How athletes can protect their dental health
Good oral hygiene is particularly important for people who exercise intensely on a regular basis.
Among the most important measures are:
Thorough dental care after meals
Regular cleaning helps to remove plaque and food residue.
Adequate fluid intake
Water can help keep the mouth moist and dilute acids.
Mouthwashes or fluoride-containing care products
These can provide additional support for tooth enamel.
Especially during longer training sessions, quick oral care can be useful.
Practical oral care during training and competition
For many athletes, it is not always possible to brush their teeth during training or competition. In such situations, a small oral care travel kit can help to keep important oral care products within reach at all times.
A practical oral care travel kit often contains a travel toothbrush, dental floss, and interdental brushes and is ideal for training, competition, or travel.
The Snow Shine Whitening Foam from SNOW PEARL, for example, can be used both like a toothpaste and like a mouthwash.
The light foam contains fluoride, supports oral hygiene, and helps to moisturize the oral cavity. At the same time, ingredients like lavender oil and propolis provide a fresh mouthfeel.
The compact 50 ml size is particularly well-suited for on the go or for training, as it can easily be carried in a sports bag.
For use, the foam can be distributed directly in the mouth, swished briefly, and then spit out.
Dental care for athletes in everyday life
Athletes should pay particular attention to their oral hygiene, as intense physical exertion, dry mouth, and sports drinks can influence dental health. A consistent dental care routine, regular cleaning of interdental spaces, and sufficient fluid intake help to protect teeth long-term.
Regular dentist visits remain important
In addition to daily oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups are also important.
Athletes should ideally:
• have a dental check-up once a year
• plan for one to two professional dental hygiene treatments per year
This allows potential problems to be detected and treated early.
Conclusion: Dental health also plays an important role in sports
Even though the focus in high-performance sports is usually on physical fitness, dental health should not be neglected. Dry mouth, energy-rich sports drinks, and intense training strain can put more pressure on the teeth.
Good oral hygiene, sufficient fluid intake, and regular dentist visits help maintain dental health long-term – and thus also support athletic performance.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about teeth in high-performance sports
Why are teeth under particular strain in high-performance sports?
Intense physical exertion, frequent consumption of sports drinks, and dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth damage and caries.
How do sports drinks affect teeth?
Many sports drinks contain acids and sugar, which can attack tooth enamel and promote the development of caries.
Why do athletes have dental problems more often?
Frequent snacking, energy-rich drinks, dry mouth, and intense exertion create an environment that can negatively influence dental health.
How can one protect teeth during sports?
Consistent dental care, adequate fluid intake, reduced sugar intake, and the use of suitable dental care products help to protect teeth.
Which dental care is particularly suitable for athletes?
Products that strengthen tooth enamel and are easy to use in everyday life, such as toothpaste with fluoride and complementary care products for on the go.
Is dental care immediately after sports useful?
Yes, especially after consuming sports drinks or snacks, quick oral care helps to neutralize acids and reduce plaque.
What role does saliva play in sports?
Saliva protects teeth by neutralizing acids. During intense exertion, saliva production can be reduced, which increases the risk of tooth damage.
Professionally reviewed by
Dr. med. dent. Lorenza Dahm
Dentist, Master of Science in Oral Implantology
Founder of SNOW PEARL®
About the author
Dr. med. dent. Lorenza Dahm is a dentist with over 30 years of clinical experience and the founder of SNOW PEARL®. As a Master of Science in Oral Implantology, she has spent many years focusing intensely on prevention, remineralization of tooth enamel, and modern concepts of dental and oral health. The recommendations described in this article are based on scientific findings and her many years of practical experience in treating patients.