Impact of Physical Activity on Oral Health: Summary of a Systematic Review

This review investigates the relationship between physical activity and oral health. It explores whether regular exercise affects oral health outcomes, including periodontal disease, dental caries, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and salivary biomarkers. Data was gathered from 17 studies published between 2013 and 2023 and selected from three major databases (PubMed, Scopus, and DOAJ) and assessed for quality using NIH and JBI tools.

Systematic Review Approach

Physical inactivity is known to have harmful effects on overall health. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines oral health as the absence of pain, disease, or disorders in the mouth and face that affect basic functions and mental well-being. Poor oral health is linked to reduced quality of life and increased risk of noncommunicable diseases such as hypertension, dementia, and depression. This review explores whether exercise contributes to improved oral health.

Key Findings: Physical Activity and Oral Health

• Periodontal health: Physically active individuals generally exhibit better periodontal health. Regular walking and exercise are associated with a lower prevalence of periodontitis, potentially due to enhanced insulin sensitivity and reduced systemic inflammation.
• Dental caries and apical lesions: Some evidence suggests that people who exercise regularly have fewer apical lesions and better dental indices. However, athletes may be at risk for dental caries due to frequent consumption of sports drinks.
• Temporomandibular disorders (TMD): Moderate-intensity exercise is linked to increased TMD pain, while low-intensity exercise is associated with fewer symptoms. Physical inactivity is correlated with a higher prevalence of TMD.
• Salivary biomarkers: Exercise influences salivary flow rate, pH, and protein composition. Active individuals show reduced levels of certain inflammatory proteins and increased levels of protective proteins and antibodies in saliva.
• Oral musculature and function: Simple oral exercises enhance mastication, salivation, and swallowing functions, particularly in the elderly.
• Lifestyle factors: Good oral health is associated with multiple factors including age, race, income, smoking status, and physical activity.

Implications for Dental Practice

These findings show that being active can help improve oral health. Exercise may lower inflammation, boost saliva flow, and support healthy gums. People who stay active often have better gum health and fewer oral problems.

However, not all exercise is the same. High-intensity workouts may increase jaw pain (TMD), and athletes who drink sugary sports drinks can have more cavities. When talking with patients, consider both the type and intensity of activity.

Encourage patients to:

• Stay active as part of a healthy lifestyle
• Avoid sugary sports drinks to protect teeth
• Keep up with brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits

By sharing these tips, dental professionals can help patients understand how physical activity supports oral health and overall well-being. More research is needed to understand how exercise affects oral health and to create clear guidelines for using physical activity in oral health care.

Source: J Family Med Prim Care: Impact of physical activity on oral health: A systematic review

The information contained herein is for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.