Negative Effects of Swimming Pools on Dental Health
With the arrival of summer, pool use increases. However, the chlorinated water in pools can have serious negative effects on dental health. Experts point out that chlorinated pool water damages tooth enamel. Especially In pools where pH levels are uncontrolled Swimming can cause erosion of tooth enamel, increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity, discoloration and cavities.
Erosive Effect of Pool Water on Tooth Enamel
Pool water causes microscopic erosion of tooth enamel. It is stated that 68% of pools in Türkiye are outside the safe pH range. Pool erosion It has been observed that the number of patients applying has increased threefold in the last five years due to the 2024 inspection report of the Ministry of Health. According to the 326 inspection report of the Ministry of Health, the pH value of 222 out of 6.4 pools drops to XNUMX, which poses a serious threat to tooth enamel.
Scientific Data Sounds Alarm
- Journal of Dental Research (2023): It has been determined that 74% of Olympic swimmers have enamel erosion.
- Istanbul University Clinical Data (2023): Active swimmers between the ages of 15-25 had an average enamel loss of 0.43 mm. This is four times that of normal individuals.
Tooth Enamel Erosion and Children
The risk of erosion is twice as high in children, especially those under the age of 12, because their tooth enamel is thinner. It is wrong to perceive shiny teeth as healthy teeth; as the enamel layer thins, the yellow dentin underneath begins to show. Although this is sometimes mistakenly considered “whitening,” it is actually enamel loss.
One Session Swimming and Risk of Tooth Loss
When the pH value of pool water drops below 6.8, the hydroxyapatite crystals that make up tooth enamel begin to dissolve. Even in just one swimming session, 1-3 microns of enamel can be lost. Brushing your teeth immediately after swimming is considered a big mistake. Brushing enamel that has been softened by acid creates a sandpaper effect. Therefore, you should wait at least 30 minutes and then brush your teeth with a fluoride-containing but non-abrasive toothpaste.
5 Critical Risks Threatening Dental Health
- Don't be fooled by the smell of chlorine: The strong odor is not chlorine, but a buildup of chloramine, which erodes enamel.
- Salty pools are more harmful: Hydrogen peroxide released by electrolysis is a stronger corrosive than chlorine.
- Color change is an indication of erosion: White is not a stain, but a reflection of the dentin.
- Mouth guards should be chosen carefully: Unsuitable ones cause chlorinated water to remain in the mouth.
- Toothpaste-chlorine interaction: Some substances combine with chlorine and initiate a chemical corrosive reaction.
Recommended Strategies for Protection
- Use a pH meter: Do not swim if pH is below 7.2.
- Calcium phosphate sprays: It neutralizes the acidic environment in the mouth.
- Fluoride gel twice a week: Strengthens enamel and reduces sensitivity.
- Monthly biofilm cleaning: It reduces acid retention.
- Protection of at-risk teeth: Preventive treatments should be applied to already weakened teeth.
Pool Damage Repair and Awareness
It should be remembered that tooth enamel erosion progresses silently. If you have conditions such as tingling in hot tea or toothache at night, do not look for the cause elsewhere. Although pools may seem innocent, the invisible acids in the water can damage your teeth. Awareness is essential, because protection is possible with simple but effective steps.
