Preventative dentistry is the best way to keep you from needing an emergency dentist. Surprisingly, one of the things you may be doing to keep physically fit may be harming your teeth. Look around Perth or any suburb and you will see a lot of people doing their best to stay physically fit. At any given time, you can find runners, walkers or bicyclists on the road.
However, while they may be keeping their bodies in shape, they may also be doing irreparable harm to their teeth. According to a release from the Australian Dental Association (ADA), more than half of “active Australians” know that long-term, excessive consumption of sports drinks can damage your teeth.
A couple of other interesting facts from the study: one in three parents of active children allow them to consume sports drinks and one in three Australians don’t adhere to minimal brushing, twice a day, as recommended. In addition, less than 18% of Australians polled remember the last time they went to the dentist.
The ADA conducted and released this research in conjunction with ADA Dental Health Week, celebrated 3-9 August 2015.
What’s Wrong with Sports Drinks?
Sports drinks were created for elite athletes to help fight heat stroke, dehydration and muscle cramps. They contain sugars and acids that can damage enamel and cause cavities. They were originally created for events only: not for everyday use. Unfortunately, they are now marketed as an everyday item. Many athletes like them so much they have substituted them for other soft drinks as a part of their daily diet.
What Can You Do?
Drink water:
For the majority of those out walking, jogging or cycling, water will do a great job of rehydrating.No sipping:
If you do need or want a sports drink, drink it fast. Don’t sip. And whatever you do, don’t drink sports drinks for more than an hour.Use a straw:
Using a straw means less of the liquid touches your teeth on the way down. Rinsing your mouth with water also helps remove the acids and sugars from your teeth.Brush twice a day:
Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day will protect your teeth from a multitude of problems.To learn more or for an appointment, call us today: (08) 9361 1728.
