One of the primary reasons for running is that it is good for your health. Running helps people lose weight, fight heart disease, and relieve stress. However, running can also have a hidden negative effect on one of the most important parts of your body: Your teeth.
One of the best defenses against tooth decay and gum disease is saliva. Saliva helps to wash away food particles in teeth, helps to rebuild tooth enamel due to its calcium content, assists in fighting bacteria that can lead to gingivitis, and, thanks to its alkaline nature, saliva plays a key role in neutralizing harmful acids that can destroy teeth. Therefore, when the mouth is dry, the teeth are at risk.
Because most runners breath through their mouth, the mouth is usually dry during an entire run. If the runner eats a power bar or other carbohydrate-rich snack prior to the run, sticky, sugary food particles have free reign to inflict damage on teeth and gums.
In order to protect your teeth, try to brush with toothpaste and swishing with mouthwash before running. Also, try to cut down on drinking or eating sugary snacks directly before or after running. Finally, do your best to stay hydrated throughout the day in order counteract any negative effects dry mouth may have on your teeth.
