How periodontal disease affects you (and why it matters if you do sport)
January 20, 2025
Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums and the bone that holds the teeth in place. Its impact goes beyond the mouth, and those who do sport have an extra reason to keep an eye on it.
What periodontal disease is
It begins as gingivitis —bleeding, inflamed gums— and, if left untreated, progresses to periodontitis, which destroys the bone and can end in tooth loss. It’s silent: it often doesn’t hurt until it’s advanced.
The link with sporting performance
Chronic inflammation of the gums releases inflammatory mediators throughout the body. In active people, that sustained inflammatory state can affect recovery and performance. What’s more, certain habits among athletes —breathing through the mouth, sugary isotonic drinks, energy gels— encourage dental problems.
How to prevent it
Whether you train or not, prevention is the same:
- Thorough hygiene. Brushing, flossing and regular check-ups. Plaque is the source of it all.
- Professional cleanings. They remove the tartar the brush can’t reach, especially below the gum.
- Hydrating with water. It reduces the effect of sugary drinks and tackles dry mouth during exercise.
Dudas frecuentes sobre periodontics
Can periodontitis be cured?
The damage to the bone can't be reversed, but the disease can be controlled and stopped with periodontal treatment and maintenance. The sooner, the better the outlook.
