Does your child plan on going swimming all summer long? Swimming is generally considered a safer sport for dental health compared to activities like boxing or football. Even so, prolonged exposure to pool or ocean water can still have consequences for oral health. Continue reading to learn about how the chemicals that are used to maintain pool hygiene can lead to oral health problems
Swimmer’s Calculus
Extended periods in the pool offer more than just a sun-kissed glow; they can also lead to the development of swimmer’s calculus. Prolonged exposure to chlorinated water increases the likelihood of this condition, wherein chlorine deposits residue on teeth, resulting in yellow or brown stains.
Swimmers who spend over six hours weekly in chemically treated water are primarily susceptible to this issue. It’s essential to notify your child’s dentist upon noticing these discolorations on their teeth. Dentists can effectively remove the stains, provide preventative tips, and suggest more frequent cleanings if the problem persists chronically.
Tooth Sensitivity
If you have a pool at home, it’s crucial to enlist a professional to monitor chlorine levels diligently. Inadequately chlorinated pools pose a significant risk to dental health, as they can erode enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and brittleness.
Mouth Injuries
Engaging in high-contact sports, such as water polo or water volleyball elevates the likelihood of your child sustaining tooth and jaw injuries. Safeguard their smile by ensuring that they consistently wear a mouthguard during play to minimize the risk of dental trauma.
Tooth Squeeze
Divers and snorkelers face the potential risk of experiencing “tooth squeeze,” medically termed as barodontalgia, particularly in extreme altitudes such as deep underwater. This condition arises when air trapped within the teeth contracts to equalize with external pressure, leading to discomfort and possible damage to dental fillings, crowns, or dental restorations.
Prior to embarking on your next diving adventure, it’s advisable to consult your dentist to ensure there are no untreated cavities or loose dental restorations in your child’s mouth. This will help lessen the likelihood of complications.
What You Can Do to Help
Fortunately, there are some tips that you can follow to keep your child’s smile safe, such as:
- Use a mouthguard – Ensure that your child wears a mouthguard during contact water sports, such as water polo or water volleyball.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings – Biannual cleanings and dental check-ups for your child will help them avoid cavities and other oral health issues.
- Trust a professional – Make sure you get a reputable company to chlorinate your backyard pool to maintain safe water conditions.
- Rinse afterward – Encourage your child to rinse out their mouth with tap water after they go swimming to wash away any harmful chemicals.
- Strengthen their enamel – You can do this by having them drink fluoridated tap water and brush their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
About the Practice
Sprout Dentistry for Kids in McKinney specializes in the prevention and treatment of oral health issues for infants, toddlers, children, and teens. Their comprehensive range of treatments aims to cultivate healthy smiles and promote better oral care habits in growing children. With a focus on preserving bright, healthy teeth, they prioritize providing positive and comfortable dental experiences for kids. Their expertise in children’s dentistry ensures your child’s smile remains both functional and beautiful. To schedule an appointment or learn more about their children’s dental services, contact Sprout Dentistry for Kids in McKinney at (469) 301-3212 or visit their website.