Information for athletes
Being active in sports means taking responsibility for your own body. This also includes oral health. Inflammatory diseases in the oral cavity can put a lasting strain on the body and affect performance, regeneration, and general well-being.
As a dentist in the canton of Zurich, I inform and support active athletes in maintaining stable oral health and, if necessary, regaining it, regardless of whether they participate in recreational or competitive sports.
Why oral health is important for athletes
Numerous bacteria live in the mouth. If teeth and gums are not cared for properly, inflammation can develop. This often occurs without pain and therefore goes unnoticed.
Chronic inflammation such as periodontitis places a permanent strain on the immune system. This can have noticeable effects, especially for people who are active in sports, such as:
- lower resilience
- delayed regeneration
- increased inflammatory reactions in the body
Connection to the heart and circulation
Inflammatory diseases in the oral cavity can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. There, they contribute to systemic inflammatory processes that affect vascular health, among other things. This connection has been the subject of intensive medical research for several years.
Since periodontitis often has few symptoms for a long time, regular check-ups are particularly important.
Sport, dry mouth and tooth damage
Less saliva is produced during physical exertion. However, saliva is an important protective factor for the teeth. In combination with acidic or sugary drinks, this can increase the risk of caries and enamel erosion.
Adequate hydration with mineral water or unsweetened tea is much better for oral health.
My personal approach
As a dentist and former competitive athlete, I am familiar with the demands that physical activity places on the body—both from a professional perspective and from my own experience. This understanding is reflected in the care I provide to my patients.
It is important to me to explain connections in an understandable way, to identify risks early on, and to discuss sensible preventive measures together.
Prevention and individual care
Regular checkups, professional teeth cleaning, and good oral hygiene at home can help detect or prevent inflammatory changes at an early stage. The goal is to maintain long-term oral health—tailored to your individual lifestyle and athletic activity.
If you are physically active and would like to have your oral health checked, I would be happy to advise you personally.