Most people are aware that pools can be dangerous. Obviously, there is always a risk of drowning or slipping and hitting your head, but it turns out swimming in pools can actually also be causing some big problems with your teeth.
Dentist Dr. Andrej Bozic sent a warning to pool goers. He said, “Swimming is good exercise and a great way to enjoy the summer, but it’s important to be aware of the potential impact on your teeth and take steps to protect them. Children are particularly vulnerable because they often swallow pool water or swim with their mouths open, increasing the exposure of their teeth to chlorine.”
Apparently, the chlorine that keeps the pool clean can also damage your teeth. The chemical’s acidity wears away enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth. Losing enamel could increase your sensitivity, cause discoloration and makes you more susceptible to cavities.
In fact, a 2019 study looked at 21 professional swimmers and found all of them had stained teeth, even though 85% brushed two to three times a day.
Dr. Bozic urged people to be careful, stating, “Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but it’s not invincible. Once it’s gone, it doesn’t regenerate. That’s why taking preventive measures is essential, especially during the summer when pool time increases.”
So what should be done? Well, kids need to be encouraged to avoid getting any water in their mouth while swimming to minimize chlorine intake. Then, after time in the pool, anyone who was underwater should not brush their teeth, since that can actually spread acids in your mouth. Instead, you should rinse out your mouth with water.
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