Even if you brush, floss, and get regular dental check-ups, if you’re like many athletes—especially those in the menopause transition—you may still struggle with tooth decay and oral health woes. That’s because both athletics and hormone decline can lead to conditions that set the stage for dental disease and mouth discomfort, both of which can put a damper on your performance (and your pocketbook). This week, we help save your smile with dental health expert and avid triathlete Dr. Julie Gallagher.

Julie Gallagher, Ph.D., is an honorary research fellow at University College London, based at the Eastman Dental Institute Centre for Oral Health and Performance. Julie worked in clinical dental practice for more than 30 years before pursuing her interest in epidemiology and sport and embarking on a Ph.D. in 2014. Her Ph.D. project investigated oral health and its impact on performance of elite athletes. She was awarded her PhD in March 2020. She is looking forward to participating at Ironman Italy in September 2022 following its postponement from 2020. You can read more about her work and sports dentistry in the November 2021 British Dental Journal.

Support our Partners:

Previnex: Get 15% off your first order with code HITPLAY at https://www.previnex.com/

Midi Health: You Deserve to Feel Great. Book your virtual visit today at https://www.joinmidi.com/

Wahoo KICKR RUN: Use the code FEISTY to get a free Headwind Smart Fan (value $300) with the purchase of a Wahoo KICKR RUN at https://shorturl.at/maTzL

Sign up for our FREE Feisty 40+ newsletter: https://feisty.co/feisty-40/

Learn More and Register for our 2026 Tucson Bike Camp: https://feisty.co/events/gravel-camp-x-bike-mechanic-school/

Join the Feisty Strong Barbell Club: https://feisty.co/strong-club/ and use code:  STRONG2026 to save $50

Follow Us on Instagram:

Feisty Menopause: @feistymenopause

Hit Play Not Pause Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/807943973376099