Is your family excited to hit the local pool this summer? Swimming is one of the best ways to cool down in hot weather – it’s also a great form of exercise for both children and adults! However, it may surprise you to learn that this fun activity can have adverse effects on your oral health. Read on to find out how it can be bad for your teeth and what you can do to protect your smile this season.
The Effects of Swimming on Your Oral Health
Most people love to spend their summer days at the pool. Unfortunately, spending too much time in the water can put your oral health at risk. Here are a few ways swimming can affect your mouth:
Swimmer’s Calculus
The longer your teeth are exposed to chlorinated water, the more likely you are to develop swimmer’s calculus. After constant exposure, the chlorine can deposit a residue on your teeth and turn them yellow or brown. Typically, this condition only affects swimmers who spend more than six hours a week in treated water. If you notice any of these stains on your or your children’s teeth, let your dentist know as they can remove them with treatments and frequent cleanings.
Tooth Sensitivity
If you have a pool at home, make sure you get the chlorine levels checked by a professional to ensure they’re within the recommended range. Improperly chlorinated pools can wreak havoc on your teeth, causing enamel erosion and leaving your teeth feeling brittle and sensitive.
Tooth Squeeze
Are you a diver or snorkeler? You may be at risk for “tooth squeeze”, also known as barodontalgia. This condition usually occurs in extreme altitudes, such as deep water. The air inside your teeth contracts to match the outside pressure, causing significant discomfort and damage to fillings, crowns, and dentures. Before your next dive, schedule a visit with your dentist and ask them to check your mouth for signs of decay or loose restorations.
Mouth Injuries
Participating in high-contact sports, such as swimming, water volleyball, and water polo, increases your risk for teeth, gum, and jaw injuries. Prevent these accidents by wearing a properly fitted mouthguard whenever you play! They’ll protect your smile from impact and minimize damage.
Tips for Protecting Your Smile
Even though swimming can be harmful, you don’t have to give it up completely! Here are some tips for keeping your pearly whites safe:
- Look for signs of acid eating away at surfaces around the pool (your teeth will be affected the same way)
- Test pool water with pH strips to ensure it’s properly chlorinated
- Keep your mouth closed while swimming to minimize chlorine exposure
- Attend routine checkups to catch, prevent, and treat enamel erosion as early as possible
Your oral health might be the last thing on your mind when you go for a swim – but it should be a priority. By following these tips and taking proper precautions, you can maintain a strong, healthy smile all season long!
Meet the Dentists
Dr. Christine D. Laster and Dr. Dalton Hunt have the expertise and knowledge to make your next visit a positive one, regardless of the type of treatment needed. From children’s dental checkups to root canal therapy to cosmetic treatment, they offer services the entire family can benefit from – all under one roof! Dr. Laster and Dr. Hunt can ensure you and your loved one’s smiles are in their best shape this summer, especially if you will be frequenting the local pool. Visit our website or call (919) 787-0355 to schedule your dental checkup.