Protect Your Family’s Smiles From Chlorine This Summer

Without chlorine, swimming pools would be polluted with all kinds of harmful bacteria.

But the acidity of the chlorine isn’t great for your teeth.

It’s not enough to destroy your smile after only a few laps, but repeated exposure to chlorine all summer long can create an issue.

Your Charlotte, NC dentist has a few tips for protecting your family’s teeth from common chlorine damage like weak enamel, dry mouth, tooth sensitivity, and discoloration.

Instead of skipping pool parties, just make sure your kids:

  1. Brush their teeth after swimming. 

Everyone should be brushing their teeth twice a day, but it wouldn’t hurt to make sure your kids brush after they’re done swimming for the day. This can get rid of any acid that’s still clinging to their teeth. 

  1. Drink plenty of water. 

This is the general rule all year long, but it’s especially important during the hot summer months. Staying well-hydrated will prevent dry mouth and wash away any acid from pool water that may linger in their mouths after they swim. 

  1. Keep their mouths closed when swimming underwater. 

Obviously, you can’t prevent pool water from getting inside their mouths completely, especially when kids are splashing around and laughing, But telling them to try to remember to keep their mouths closed underwater will help prevent too much chlorinated water from getting in.

If you have your own swimming pool, make sure the pH level stays around 7.5. In this range, you can be confident that your pool has enough acidity to keep harmful bacteria from growing but not so much acidity that it will harm your family’s smiles.

Also, remember to bring your loved ones to us for routine dental cleanings and exams so we can make sure your favorite smiles are safely intact. Call Charlotte Dentistry at 704-285-0846 to schedule your appointment in Charlotte, NC. You can also online.