If you are swimming as a form of recreation or exercise, indoor or outdoor, at the gym or the recreation center, congratulations! I commend you for taking care of your health. However, did you know swimming might be dangerous for your smile? Well, it’s true, which is why it’s important to do all you can to keep your teeth, gums, and jaws safe. So let’s take a look at how to swim safely!
You could experience a wide variety of dental issues while you’re at the pool, including:
–Swimmer’s calculus: Swimmer’s calculus is a dental issue that many experience if they spend more than six hours a week in chlorinated water. This problem occurs when the chlorine deposits residue on your teeth. This can turn them a yellow or brown color and can increase your chances of developing gum disease. If you notice that your teeth are darkening, it’s best to call our office and schedule an appointment.
–Tooth sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can occur because too much exposure to chlorine can wear away your tooth enamel and make your teeth brittle and sensitive. You can avoid this issue by making sure the chlorine levels in the pool are safe.
–Mouth injuries: High-contact water sports, like water polo and water volleyball, can increase your risk of experiencing a dental emergency. This is because a hard or forceful object can hit your mouth and chip, fracture, or knock out one or more of your teeth. It could also harm your jaws. This is why it’s important to wear a mouthguard while you play.
–Lost dental appliances: Remember to take retainers, dentures, and other dental appliances out of your mouth before you swim. This will help you reduce your chances of losing your appliance while you’re in the water. It will also help you reduce your chances of damaging or ruining it.
If you do your best to keep your smile safe while you’re spending the day at the pool, there is a high chance you’ll avoid these issues. To learn more about how to maintain a healthy and safe smile while you’re swimming in Gainesville, Virginia, please call Awesome Smiles Dental Center at 571-261-2600 at your earliest convenience. My dental team is happy to give you the tips and information you need to protect your smile and oral health while you swim!