When summer hits in Cary, IL, time in the pool becomes part of the routine for many families. But if you’ve noticed that your teeth feel more sensitive after swimming regularly, you might be wondering if chlorine could be playing a role.
Let’s take a closer look at how chlorine interacts with your teeth and what you can do to protect your smile while enjoying the water.
Chlorine and Enamel: What’s the Connection?
Chlorine is used to kill bacteria and keep pool water sanitary. However, when chlorine causes the water to become too acidic—typically due to poor pH balance—it can begin to affect the enamel that protects your teeth.
Enamel doesn’t grow back, so once it’s thinned, sensitivity often follows. This can show up as a sharp feeling when you eat something cold or a dull ache after long swim sessions.
Are All Swimmers at Risk?
Not necessarily. The risk mostly depends on how much time you spend in the pool and how well the water is balanced. Recreational swimmers usually don’t need to worry. But if you swim regularly—especially in pools with unbalanced pH—your teeth may be more vulnerable.
Competitive swimmers and lifeguards are more likely to experience this issue, sometimes referred to as “swimmer’s calculus.” This is a buildup of hard deposits on the front teeth caused by chemically treated water. It doesn’t cause cavities, but it can make teeth appear yellow or stained.
Signs That Chlorine Might Be Affecting Your Teeth
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Sensitivity to cold or sweet foods
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A chalky or rough texture on the front of your teeth
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Yellowing or dullness, especially near the gumline
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Extra tartar buildup during your dental cleanings
If you’re in the pool multiple times a week—especially in indoor or lap pools—you may notice these changes more.
How to Protect Your Teeth During Pool Season
You don’t have to give up swimming. Just a few small changes can help reduce the effects of chlorine on your smile:
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Keep your mouth closed while underwater
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Rinse with clean water after each swim
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Avoid brushing immediately after swimming—wait about 30 minutes
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Use fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinses to support enamel
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If you maintain your own pool, aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.8
And if you swim often, ask your dentist about a fluoride treatment or custom mouthguard for added protection.
Preventive Dentistry at Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL
If you’ve been noticing increased tooth sensitivity or enamel changes this summer, Dr. Niraj Patel at Cary Family Dental can help you get to the root of it. We’ll check for signs of enamel erosion, discuss your swimming habits, and suggest simple, effective ways to keep your smile comfortable all season long.
Schedule your visit today—let’s keep your teeth strong, healthy, and pool-ready.