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

ABSTRACT

Introduction: 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.