Mouthguards | Sports Drinks | Dental Injuries

Sports Drinks

Water hydrates better than any other liquid, both before and during exercise. Water is cheaper and more readily available than any other drink. While some people enjoy the taste of water, most people find it relatively bland and will stop drinking it before becoming fully hydrated. Sports drinks don't hydrate better than water, but because they are sweetened and taste better, you are more likely to drink larger volumes, which leads to better hydration. The typical taste of a sport drink doesn't quench your thirst, so you will keep drinking a sports drink long after water has lost its appeal. You can get a carbohydrate boost from sports drinks which supply your muscles with fuel during sport. In addition, sports drinks contain sodium, which is the main electrolyte which may be lost from perspiration.

From a dental perspective, sports drinks contain sugar and affect the pH balance in your mouth leading to an increased risk of dental decay. If you feel the need to drink a sports drink. Rinse your mouth with water afterwards to minimise the amount of sports drink that remains in contact with your teeth during your game.