Up to 90% of elite athletes in Ireland have untreated tooth decay, highlighting the need for improved dietary and preventative oral advice, according to new research from Dublin Dental University Hospital (DDUH), Trinity College Dublin, in collaboration with University College Dublin, Dublin City University and Sport Ireland Institute.

The study, which was led by Professor Michael O'Sullivan, Associate Professor Michael Crowe and Professor Lewis Winning and took place at Sport Ireland Institute and the National Rowing Centre (Rowing Ireland), found that Irish athletes showed a higher prevalence of tooth decay than participants in a comparative UK study. 

The research revealed that consumption of some starch-containing foods (such as biscuits, cakes, and savoury snacks) during snack times was significantly associated with tooth decay patterns among athletes. While sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit drinks were major contributors to overall sugar intake, the timing and type of carbohydrate consumption appeared to play a key role in oral health outcomes. Additionally, hard training can temporarily lower immune function and increase the risk of oral disease.

In total, 55 men and 33 women, averaging 25 years of age, took part in the research with the majority of athletes training in cricket, boxing and rowing. Gender differences in tooth decay prevalence were relatively small.

"This research highlights the complex relationship between athletic nutrition and oral health," said Dr Michael Crowe. "Elite athletes have unique nutritional demands, but we need to ensure that meeting these demands doesn't compromise their oral health. Our findings suggest that the type and timing of carbohydrate intake, particularly starchy snacks, may be important factors to consider."

As always, the good news is that there are simple tips to keep bacteria and tooth decay at bay:

  • Drinking enough fluid helps to wash away bacteria and prevent dry mouth.
  • Acid and bacteria can be removed by brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
  • Seek dietary advice. Carbohydrates, sugar and frequent meals are essential to fuel performance, but this may conflict with oral health recommendations.

The rest of our top tips are in our infographics, designed by Jane Farrell at Sport Ireland Institute, below.

The full study, Diet and Dental Caries in Elite Athletes in Ireland, can be found here: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12819363/

The authors were Dr Annie Hughes, Prof Michael O'Sullivan, Dr Michael Crowe, Prof Lewis Winning, Mr Oscar Cassetti, Dr. Aifric O'Sullivan, Dr Sharon Madigan and Dr Brendan Egan.