Athletic performance depends on a complex mix of physical, psychological, environmental and lifestyle factors. These include genetics, training load, recovery, sleep, nutrition, hydration, injury, illness, stress and access to good medical care.

One often overlooked factor, however, is oral health. This is despite growing evidence that deficits here can drive inflammation and fatigue throughout the body as well as undermining everything from sleep and nutrition to levels of power and endurance.

While the quality of the relevant studies varies, the overall message is consistent: oral health and athletic success interact in too many ways to be ignored. Instead, by prioritising oral health, athletes can protect both their physical wellbeing and their mental edge, creating a stronger foundation for success in sport.

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