Is your child planning to spend the summer swimming? While swimming is generally safer for dental health compared to sports like boxing or football, extended exposure to pool or ocean water can still impact their oral health. The chemicals used to keep pool water clean, such as chlorine, can sometimes lead to dental problems. Keep reading to learn how these chemicals can affect your child’s smile and what you can do to protect their oral health.
Swimmer’s Calculus
Spending lots of time in the pool can lead to a condition called swimmer’s calculus. Chlorinated water can leave residue on teeth, causing yellow or brown stains.
This issue is common in swimmers who spend over six hours a week in treated water. If you notice these stains on your child’s teeth, inform their dentist. The dentist can remove the stains, offer prevention tips, and recommend more frequent cleanings if needed.
Tooth Sensitivity
If you have a pool at home, it’s important to have a professional regularly check and maintain the chlorine levels. Improperly chlorinated pools can erode enamel, making teeth more sensitive and brittle.
Mouth Injuries
Engaging in high-contact sports like water polo or water volleyball increases the risk of tooth and jaw injuries for your child. Protect their smile by ensuring they always wear a mouthguard during play to reduce the risk of dental trauma.
Tooth Squeeze
Divers and snorkelers can experience “tooth squeeze” or barodontalgia, especially at deep underwater levels. This happens when trapped air in the teeth contracts due to pressure, causing discomfort and potential damage to fillings, crowns, or other dental work. Before your child’s next diving trip, consult your dentist to check for untreated cavities or loose dental restorations to prevent complications.
What You Can Do to Help
Fortunately, you can follow these tips to protect your child’s smile:
- Use a mouthguard – Make sure your child wears a mouthguard when participating in contact water sports like water polo or water volleyball.
- Trust a professional – Hire a reputable company to properly chlorinate your backyard pool, ensuring safe water conditions.
- Rinse afterward – Have your child rinse their mouth with tap water after swimming to remove any harmful chemicals.
- Strengthen their enamel – Encourage them to drink fluoridated tap water and brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings – Regular cleanings and dental check-ups every six months will help prevent cavities and other oral health problems.
About the Practice
Looking for a skilled pediatric dentist in Cumming? Village Pediatric Dentistry is here to help! Their experienced team ensures your child feels safe and comfortable while providing top-notch care. They offer a wide range of treatments to promote healthy smiles and good oral habits. Focused on maintaining bright, healthy teeth, they make each dental visit a positive experience. To schedule an appointment or learn more about their services, visit Village Pediatric Dentistry’s website or call their office at (678) 456-5572.