Oral Health & Chlorine: How Swimming in a Pool Can Harm Teeth

School is nearly out for summer vacation, so your kids are likely eager for sunny sun. They may try diving into the nearest swimming pool as soon as possible. Still, you should be cautious about where your family takes a dip. Swimming in a pool can harm teeth if you don’t act carefully. Luckily, your Palm Harbor pediatric dentist will help you reduce the risk. Read on to learn about chlorine, how it affects teeth, and ways to protect smiles from pool water.

Don’t Forget: Pools Have Chlorine

Before moving forward, it helps to review the role of chlorine in modern pools. Doing so will help you see why a pool can harm your (or your child’s) teeth.

As used in pools, chlorine is a chemical that protects swimmers from waterborne ailments. It works by killing disease-causing germs before they enter your body. That way, you stay safe from diarrhea, coughing, skin rashes, and more. This effect contrasts with how drinking water once caused diseases that harmed thousands yearly.

How Chlorine Affects Teeth

Sadly, the chlorine in a swimming pool doesn’t always prove helpful. It can greatly lower pool water’s pH levels.

You see, water with a low pH level hurts your enamel. It’s so acidic that it wears down the top layers of your teeth. In other words, swimming in a pool could cause a degree of tooth decay. Your smile could then become discolored or experience extreme sensitivity.

Due to these facts, experts say you shouldn’t let a pool’s pH balance dip too low. The treated water should stay at a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8. 

Ways to Protect Smiles from Pool Water

Thankfully, there are ways to protect your family’s smiles from pool water. Try using the tips and tricks listed below:

• Notice Your Surroundings – When using a public or hotel pool, look at the nearby pool linings, railings, and ladders. If they show signs of erosion, the pool water will likely wear on your teeth.
• Use pH Strips – Buy some pool pH strips at a local supply store. If used well, they’ll let you test pool water before your swim.
• Maintain Your Own Pool – If all else fails, consider maintaining your own backyard pool. Doing so lets you control the water’s pH balance.

Swimming in a pool can harm teeth, but this fact doesn’t have to ruin your summer. Just remember the tips above, and your smile can enjoy the season as much as the rest of you.

About the Author

Dr. Maggie Davis is a pediatric dentist based in Palm Harbor, FL. Having earned her dental doctorate from the University of Florida, she’s a trained expert in caring for kids’ young and growing smiles. A child can see her for nearly any dental need – from a standard dental checkup to an urgent pulp therapy session. Dr. Davis currently practices at her self-titled clinic and is reachable on her website and by phone at (727)-786-7551.