Summer is here, the weather is hot, and there’s no better remedy than diving into a nice, cold pool. But can swimming be bad for your dental health? For frequent swimmers, it could be! It’s not a matter of chlorine or other chemicals, but the water’s pH balance. Keep reading to learn what’s happening beneath the surface and how to protect your smile.
Why Pool Water Can Be a Problem
Pools are treated with chlorine to keep the water safe, and properly balanced pool water should sit between a pH of 7.2 and 7.8. When that balance slips and the water becomes too acidic, it can soften and gradually erode your tooth enamel—the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. Once enamel is lost, it doesn’t grow back, which is why frequent swimmers, especially competitive ones, should take extra precautions.
What Is Swimmer’s Calculus?
Another issue that people who swim often can develop is “swimmer’s calculus.” This is a form of tartar buildup that creates brown or dark yellow stains on otherwise white teeth. Unlike coffee or wine stains that come from pigments settling on the surface of your smile, swimmer’s calculus forms by chemical reaction.
When the chemicals used to keep the pool clean meet with the proteins in your saliva, it causes rapid buildup on your teeth. It can also be stubborn to remove, often requiring professional cleaning to preserve your dental health.
Does Saltwater Make a Difference?
Not really. Saltwater pools are often marketed as gentler, but they still technically use chlorine; it’s just generated on-site rather than through tablets. The pH issue ends up in a similar place, so the risks for frequent swimmers are still there.
How to Protect Your Teeth
While you won’t just suddenly form any of these issues (it takes time and frequent exposure), it’s a good idea to prevent them in the first place. To help keep your smile safe while swimming:
- Keep your mouth closed while swimming underwater to limit exposure.
- Rinse with fresh water after getting out of the pool.
- Wait 30 to 60 minutes before brushing your teeth after exiting.
- If you swim often in the summer, schedule a cleaning in the middle months.
Occasional swimming isn’t a concern for most people. But if you swim daily or competitively, it’s worth talking to your dentist about it. They can keep an eye on your enamel and help you preserve your pearly whites.
About the Practice
At NU Dental of Barnegat, our team keeps a close eye on your oral health, including any effects from lifestyle habits like frequent swimming. If you’ve noticed sensitivity, staining, or rough spots on your teeth, we’re here to help. Call (609) 879-0036 to schedule your checkup before summer ends.