Impacto das Condições Bucais no Desempenho Físico de Atletas Amadores e Profissionais

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of oral health on the sports performance of athletes linked to the Miners Sports Association in Porto Velho, Brazil, covering modalities such as volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Oral health is an essential component of general health, and its impairment can negatively affect physical performance, leading to fatigue, injuries, and reduced efficiency. The research was based on the hypothesis that dental problems such as cavities, gingivitis, and malocclusion impact muscle strength, concentration, and recovery in athletes. A structured questionnaire was used to assess athletes’ knowledge about oral health, identify common oral symptoms, and analyze their perception of how these factors affect performance. The results showed that most athletes recognize the influence of oral health on physical performance and associate poor hygiene with systemic conditions such as respiratory, muscular, and coronary diseases. A high demand for the presence of a dentist in sports teams was also observed, highlighting the importance of sports dentistry and a multidisciplinary approach to comprehensive athlete health. It is concluded that oral health is a determining factor in sports performance and that continuous educational and preventive actions are essential to improve performance, quality of life, and the longevity of athletes’ careers.