Could Better Oral Health Boost Athletic Performance?
A growing body of research suggests that periodontal diseases, caries, and malocclusion may do more than affect the mouth. They may also undermine endurance, speed, strength, and recovery.
Oral health may be emerging as an overlooked factor in athletic performance, according to a new review “The Influence of Oral Health on Sports Performance: An Interdisciplinary Perspective” published in the British Dental Journal that examines the connection between dental diseases and measurable performance outcomes. For dental hygienists, the findings reinforce the value of prevention and open the door to a broader role in supporting athlete health.
The study reviewed systematic and observational research on sports performance, focusing particularly on endurance and explosive activities. Across the literature, poor oral health, including periodontal diseases, dental caries, and malocclusion, was consistently associated with reduced performance measures such as maximum oxygen uptake max, power output, speed, and agility. Athletes also reported declines in training capacity and competitive performance when oral health problems were present.
The relationship is likely multifactorial. The authors point to several possible mechanisms, including systemic inflammation, compromised nutrition due to oral discomfort, altered oral microbiomes, psychological stress, and changes in sensorimotor control. Together, these pathways suggest that oral disease may interfere not only with comfort and function, but also with recovery and physical output.
For dental hygienists, the findings provide a powerful preventive message. Athletes may not always view oral health as directly tied to performance, but the evidence suggests that routine screenings, early intervention, and oral health education could support broader wellness and competitive goals. This creates an opportunity to connect oral hygiene habits with outcomes athletes care deeply about, including endurance, strength, and readiness to train.
The review also highlights the need for stronger interdisciplinary collaboration. Oral health professionals, sports physicians, physical therapists, exercise scientists, and coaches all have a stake in optimizing athlete performance. Integrating oral health screening and prevention into athlete care models could improve both oral and systemic outcomes.
While the authors note that more high-quality research is needed, the message is already compelling: oral health is not separate from performance. For dental hygienists, this growing area of sports dentistry offers a chance to elevate patient education, expand preventive outreach, and help athletes understand that a healthier mouth may contribute to a stronger body.
