How Pool Time Affects Your Teeth: What Everyone Should Know About Chlorine and Oral Health

As outdoor temperatures continue to rise, taking a dip in a cold pool sounds refreshing. Swimming in pools with chlorine is your best defense against harmful microorganisms that could make you sick. But have you ever wondered whether chlorine is bad for your teeth?

The more you swim in chlorinated water, the higher the likelihood that chlorine could harm your tooth enamel. But as we tell all our patients, that doesn’t mean you should swear off swimming forever. We’ll explain how chlorine affects dental health and discuss ways to protect your teeth while still enjoying a cool swim in the pool.

Why Is There Chlorine in Pool Water?

Typically, that chlorine smell in the swimming pool is a good sign. Chlorine is a common chemical that helps keep pools clean and safe to use. Without this disinfectant, bacteria would flourish, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.

Although it’s safe to swim in, chlorine can harm your teeth with excessive exposure. This isn’t meant to scare you away from swimming pools and hot tubs. Rather, we’re raising your awareness so you can enjoy the water while protecting your teeth.

Effects of Chlorine in Pool Water and Hot Tubs

A little water is bound to enter your mouth occasionally when swimming at a moderate or vigorous level. Also, a few times at the pool each season are unlikely to have serious consequences. Fortunately, you would have cause for alarm only if you regularly swim with your mouth open.

However, if you enjoy a daily soak in the hot tub or regularly swim laps for exercise, enamel erosion is possible, and there could be other oral health consequences. This is especially true for over-chlorinated pools or tubs with high pH levels, which can lead to enamel erosion.

Erosion isn’t the only possible effect of excessive chlorine exposure. You may also notice

• Tooth discoloration: Also known as swimmer’s calculus, brown stains on your teeth may appear if you’re a frequent swimmer.
• Softened tooth enamel: The higher the pH of the pool water (above 7.8), the more acidic it is, which lowers chlorine’s ability to kill bacteria. Swimming in high-pH water can soften your teeth, making them more susceptible to wear and erosion.
• Tooth sensitivity: Over time, prolonged exposure to chlorine can make your teeth more sensitive to extreme temperatures. You might even notice discomfort when consuming hot or cold food or beverages after just getting out of the pool.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pH levels between 7.0 and 7.8 are typically safe, and chlorine concentrations should be at least one part per million in pools and three parts per million in hot tubs. If you use a public pool, ask the staff about the pH levels they maintain. If you own a pool or hot tub, you can use a DPD (N, N-Diethyl-1,4-Phenylenediamine Sulfate) test kit to measure chlorine and pH levels in your water.

Protecting Your Teeth During Swim Season

Even with a DPD test kit, it’s impossible to determine the pH level of chlorinated water because you can’t see it with the naked eye. However, the following tips will help you protect your teeth and overall health from the harmful effects of chlorine:

• Wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth after swimming.
• When swimming, avoid letting water into your mouth as much as possible.
• Rinse your mouth with fresh water after swimming or bathing in a chlorinated hot tub.
• Wear a swimming-specific mouthguard, especially if you’re in the water a lot.
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Take a close look at the railings, ladders, and pool linings. If you notice any corrosion, it likely means there’s too much acid in the water.
• Use your own pH strips to test any water before jumping in. You can find them at most recreational supply stores.

No matter how often you swim or soak in chlorinated hot tubs, these precautions can help you stay safe and prevent tooth enamel erosion as you beat the heat this summer. Of course, maintaining good oral hygiene at home will also help. This includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. Scheduling regular checkups and professional teeth cleanings in your area will also help you catch early signs of chlorine-related enamel erosion.

Don’t Let Chlorine Take a Toll on Your Teeth

Chlorine worries shouldn’t get in the way of your summer enjoyment or your regular swimming routine. Whether you’re a frequent swimmer or just enjoy the occasional splash to cool off, we can look for warning signs of chlorine-related sensitivity, erosion, or discoloration. If you’d like our dental providers to check for these issues or schedule your next checkup, complete our online contact form today.