Elite athletes have significantly worse dental health than their peers, a study has found – with 70% presenting with periodontal disease and 46% with active caries.
Despite continuous access to dental and medical support, researchers have found that elite athletes have significantly worse oral health than expected. Study authors Fernando Mata and Cristina López de la Torre discovered a very high prevalence of dental caries, dental erosion, and periodontal disease in athletes compared to the general population.
Why is the oral health of athletes worse?
The researchers suggested that one contributing factor could be the athletes’ diets. Excessive consumption of sports drinks, gels and supplements could contribute to a diet high in sugars and acids. This would worsen oral health through repeated exposure of the tooth enamel.
Meanwhile, frequent training and competition may lead to dehydration and oxidative stress. Dehydration is known to reduce salivary flow and diminish the protective capacity of saliva.
Frequent use of dental devices such as mouthguards may also negatively impact the oral microbiome if not properly cleaned.
Finally, the authors suggest that the time commitment required for elite sport could lead to insufficient or irregular oral hygiene habits. Though dental care might be more accessible for professional athletes, dental attendance may also be affected by a lack of spare time.
Demographic skews
Another factor identified in the study is overrepresentation of particular demographics in sport. For example, poor oral health has been found to be more frequent and severe in men, both in the general population and among athletes.
Additionally, the highest prevalence of dental disease is seen in young adults between 20 and 35 years, coinciding with peak athletic performance. The researchers note that this is especially relevant as it is generally considered to be the age of peak general health. This indicates that factors associated with sport accelerate oral deterioration.
What impact does poor oral health have on elite athletes?
In addition to identifying participation in elite sport as a risk factor for oral disease, the study suggests that poor oral health may negatively impact athletic performance.
Firstly, pain and inflammation can interfere with sleep, concentration, and recovery. The overall reduction in quality of life caused by oral health problems may decrease psychological wellbeing, which can in turn affect performance.
Systemic inflammation may also contribute to a higher risk for muscle and joint injuries. Periodontitis is especially associated with injury risk in sports such as football.
The study was published in the Sport Training journal.
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