Swimming is a fantastic way to stay fit and have fun! However, did you know that chlorinated water can potentially impact your teeth? Nothing beats the refreshment of a swim in your local pool or backyard oasis on a hot summer day. Yet, the chlorine used to keep the water safe from harmful bacteria may pose a hidden risk to your dental health.

While an occasional swim in a chlorinated pool won’t harm your teeth, frequent swimming can necessitate protective measures. Let's chat about how chlorine can affect your teeth and what steps you can take to maintain your dental health while still enjoying your swim in this hot weather!

Chlorine in Swimming Pools

Swimming pools create a perfect habitat for bacteria due to the warm water and its neutral or slightly acidic pH balance. The pH scale measures the acidity of water, with a neutral pH being 7. Water with a pH of 7 is balanced between acidic and alkaline, while levels below 7 are classified as acidic.

As you may already know, chlorine is added to public pools, backyard pools, and hot tubs to kill bacteria. Without chlorine, bacteria can multiply rapidly, causing concerns such as skin rashes, ear infections, diarrhea, and eye irritation for swimmers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises keeping the pH level of treated water between 7.2 and 7.8 to inhibit the growth of bacteria and germs. Despite these recommended levels, some pools will continue to add more chlorine, increasing the acidity and risk of potential harm to your pearly whites.  

Here are a few common dental issues that can happen from overexposure to chlorine.  

Tooth Sensitivity: Another side effect of weakened enamel is tooth sensitivity. Spending too much time in chlorinated water can cause your teeth to potentially feel discomfort when you drink hot or cold liquids.

Swimmer’s Calculus: When the pH in the water rises, the protein in saliva breaks down, leaving your teeth vulnerable to staining. Swimmer’s calculus is more commonly seen in regular swimmers. A study from Canadian Dental Hygienists Association found that competitive swimmers had a higher incidence of teeth discoloration than occasional swimmers.

Dry Mouth: Chlorine can decrease saliva production, leading to a dry mouth. Without adequate saliva, your mouth will feel dry, which can contribute to other dental issues.

Enamel Erosion: Enamel is the first layer of protective coating on your teeth. Frequent swimming can cause your enamel to erode due to chlorine exposure. While chlorine does not directly cause tooth decay, weakened enamel makes your teeth more susceptible to cavities and chipping.

What Can You Do to Help Mitigate Dental Chlorine Exposure

1. After swimming, rinse your mouth with fresh water to help remove any residual chlorine. This can help prevent the chemical from lingering on your teeth and gums.

2. Maintain a strong oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Use a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen your enamel.

3. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help wash away chlorine and keep your mouth hydrated.

4. If you swim frequently, consider wearing a mouthguard. This can provide a barrier between your teeth and chlorinated water, reducing the risk of enamel erosion and sensitivity.

5. Regular dental check-ups are crucial. Inform your dentist about your swimming habits so they can monitor your oral health and provide tailored advice.

6. Make a conscious effort to avoid swallowing pool water, which can increase your exposure to chlorine and other pool chemicals.

Swimming is great exercise, but it's important to be aware of how chlorinated pools can impact your dental health. By taking proactive steps, you can enjoy your time in the pool while minimizing potential damage to your teeth and gums. Always remember to maintain good oral hygiene, stay hydrated, and consult with your dentist regularly!

For more detailed advice on maintaining your oral health, visit one of our Garden City or St. Vital locations in Winnipeg, MB.

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