The training Olympic athletes require is intense, but
getting their oral health into shape generally isn't part of their focus. New
research suggests it should be. According to researchers, the toothbrush may be
as important as athletic shoes.
The research shows the links between oral health, general
wellbeing and athletic performance may be due to the following: 1.) pain from
oral disease, 2. inflammation, and 3.) a decreased level of
self-confidence.
The studies are based in part on findings that athletes tend
to have frequent carbohydrate intake and reduced immune function from intensive
training. Both of these things can lead to less than ideal oral health.
"While this relates directly to athletes, the
information is also important for the general public," says Dr. Denine
Rice from her Riverside Periodontal and Implant practice.
According to Professor Ian Needleman of the University
College London Eastman Dental Institute and one of the original
researchers of the study, "Clearly, pain and discomfort from tooth
decay, dental erosion, periodontal (gum) disease or infected wisdom teeth will
affect performance. We see psychological impacts from, for example, bleeding
gums, bad odors and poor appearance." Needleman went on to explain,
"It has been shown that infection in the mouth from periodontal disease,
increases the levels of inflammation in the rest of the body, too."
The good news? "These conditions are easily prevented
with regular maintenance and general dental care," says Dr. Rice. So,
perhaps it would be a good idea to pick up the toothbrush and improve your
performance.
For More Information: Rice Periodontics & Implant Surgery