3 strategies to step up your game

Whether you shoot hoops or score goals, being mindful of your mouth is important for any athlete. Follow these tips to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

1. Sport a mouthguard

From skiing to soccer, mouthguards are a must for any active sport. Basketball players are five times more likely to sustain injuries to the mouth and face than football players, so it’s especially important to provide mouth protection on the hardwood. Make sure to wear your mouthguard during games and practices!

2. Hydrate mindfully

When choosing beverages, be mindful of the amount of sugar listed on the label. Turn to water to hydrate without risking your teeth. For strenuous workouts when water isn’t enough, consider unsweetened coconut water: a low-sugar, high-electrolyte alternative packed with nutrients.

3. Combat dry mouth

Intensive exercise can leave athletes panting for breath, the perfect recipe for a dry mouth. Without a sufficient flow of saliva, food particles will remain in the mouth, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Keep a water bottle handy to hydrate, and consider brushing after a game or practice.

Related reading:

• All about mouthguards
• Baseball behavior to avoid

Updated May 2018