It’s summertime, which means you are likely to be looking forward to spending time in a nearby swimming pool. Whether it’s to exercise by doing laps or enjoy time with family, there’s no better way to beat the heat. But what you may not realize is that the chlorine in these pools can be a problem for your smile. If you’re curious about what kind of risk you may be putting your teeth in each time you go for a swim, keep reading to learn the facts and what you can do to protect them.
How Does Chlorine Affect Your Teeth?
With so many people sharing the same water, chlorine is essential for keeping pools germ- and bacteria-free. Although it’s found in tap water, the amount is minimal and certainly not enough to cause harm to your oral or overall health. However, if you spend much of your time swimming laps, you may be doing a lot of harm to your pearly whites.
Excessive chlorine exposure can lead to enamel erosion, which increases the risk of dental decay, cavities, and tooth sensitivity. Also referred to as “swimmer’s calculus,” this condition has some of the most common symptoms, including discoloration, transparent-looking teeth, and sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Teeth?
By no means is your dentist saying you should avoid pools altogether, especially during the hot summer months, but you should take steps to protect your smile if you spend a portion of each day (or multiple times a week) going for a swim.
You can do this by:
- Monitor your pool’s pH balance to ensure it is safe (if you have your own). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that levels be between 7.2 and 7.8.
- Rinse your mouth after swimming in a pool to flush out any chlorinated water.
- Try to avoid opening your mouth while under the water.
- Keep up with your regular oral hygiene routine and maintain your dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist.
Swimming is one of the best parts of summer, and it’s something you can continue to enjoy as long as you take the proper steps to protect your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Greg Riley earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the Temple University School of Dentistry. For more than 20 years, he has been providing state-of-the-art care to patients throughout Juno Beach and the surrounding areas. Offering preventive and emergency dentistry, he and his team can address sensitivity, worn-down tooth enamel, and more with high-quality restorative solutions. He will also provide helpful tips to protect your smile during the summer. If you are worried that your hot-weather activities may be putting your teeth at risk, visit our website or call (561) 622-7243 to schedule an appointment.