Knowledge of triathlon athletes about the relationship between oral health and performance

Resumo

The triathlon athletes have great energy loss due to
physical activity of high intensity and resets are based on a highcarbohydrate diet and acid elements (acids replacers), both substrates
to decay and periodontal disease. Objective: This study aimed to
evaluate, through a questionnaire whether triathlon athletes relate
oral health to their physical performance. Material and methods:
We developed a questionnaire with 20 objective questions and applied
during marathons and at fitness centers, in the city of Curitiba,
in 2015. Results: The majority of athletes use supplements with
high levels of carbohydrates and acids for energy replacement daily
and do not brush their teeth after workouts / nutrition. Of the 254
respondents, only 96 relate oral health to their performance in
sports. Conclusion: The athletes do not relate the importance of oral
health care to performance and largely do not brush the teeth after
the activities, leaving the oral environment more susceptible to the
onset of periodontal disease and caries, which can decrease their
performance. It is necessary to inform triathlon athletes about the
relationship oral health x systemic health x performance, as well as
the dentists about the need of oral health care for these athletes.