Carrying the torch for oral health

According to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Medical Commission, which supports the protection of Olympians' wellbeing, the role that satisfactory dental health may play in the pursuit of an athlete's goals is sometimes neglected.

In its publication, Sports Dentistry, the IOC states: 'The mouth and body must work together as a unit and a healthy mouth will allow the body to function in the most efficient manner possible. From better chewing and digestion of food all the way to proper support of the upper body muscles, a healthy dental condition will bring out the best in an athlete.'

Drink to your health

One way in which dental health can be affected is when athletes drink beverages they believe are good for their body, but in fact may contribute to tooth surface loss.

Taking a closer look at sports drinks, the majority have a pH below the critical measure of 5.5, the point at which erosion of tooth enamel commences. To provide a guide, water quality regulations in the UK specify that the pH of tap water should be between 6.5 and 9.5, cow's milk is between 6.4 and 6.8, while Lucozade Sport Orange comes in at a pH of 3.8 and orange juice at 3.5.