Athletes use sports drinks as a way of rehydrating their bodies and also expects a boost in the supply of energy that they need to last longer in their respective games. This kind of drink aims to replenish the electrolytes in the body that you lose as you engage in rigorous activities. These popular drinks are consumed in gyms and other venues of sports and exercise and even young children consistently drink them.

This drink may give you an extra boost in endurance and strength for a better performance at your game but there are risks that involve your dental health. Emergency dentist Mesa AZ proved these commercial sports drinks could cause teeth damage because of sugar, salt, citric acid and food coloring content . These ingredients pose a possible threat when taken in excess and consistently throughout the day.

The sugar in sports drinks is high enough that you can compare them to sodas and juices. It may give you the energy you need with these carbs but your teeth will suffer from tooth decay and cavities. The bacteria in your mouth thrive in sugar and sipping sports drinks makes them produce acid in your teeth that cause enamel erosion. The enamel erosion is made even worse by the citric acid from your sports or carbonated drink. Thinning down of enamel and the exposure of your tooth’s dentin makes it easier for the bacteria to infect your tooth’s pulp where all the nerves that nourish your tooth are located. This makes most athletes have severe cases of tooth decay and gum disease.

Having your tooth’s enamel eroded will cause toothaches, sensitivity to hot and cold and tooth decay. You have to constantly rehydrate but this doesn’t mean that have to rely on sports drinks all the time. Should you drink them, be sure to drink water right after and avoid having them at night or near your bedtime. You could also use straws to deliver the drink directly to your throat. This way the acidic drink won’t erode your tooth’s enamel.

Your dental health is as important as any other system in your body. Remember that all the nutrients and vitamins from the food that you eat pass through your mouth. Whether you’re an athlete or just exercising to manage your weight and improve your health, it takes dedication, practice and healthy eating to achieve your goals. Often times, your teeth are not prioritized and are forgotten when you focus on strengthening the body. Always remember that any infection or inflammation in your mouth will impact your body on many levels.

You can take care of your body and develop your skills without sacrificing your teeth. You just have to be careful about what you eat and drink. Eating healthy foods and healthy habits in conjunction with your dental care routine will surely save your pearly whites from tooth decay and enamel erosion. It’s great to have developed muscles and toned body with a smile to match.