Wednesday, July 16, 2014

"Just Keep Swimming"..But Protect Your Teeth

Photo provided by Shutterstock.com
With the warm weather brought on by the summer heat we all know there is one sure way to cool down and have fun, hopping into the swimming pool. But, did you know those dips into the pool could be harming your teeth.

Studies done over the years have presented evidence that swimming pools can cause damage tooth enamel. The damage is called enamel erosion, which is caused by chlorine. Chlorine is a chemical used to keep pool water clean. However, this bacterium killing chemical is highly acidic and over time will start to erode your teeth.

Tooth erosion is caused by acid dissolving the surface of the teeth. Teeth usually can repair themselves with minerals in saliva, but too much exposure too often will cause the erosion to begin. The eroded teeth become extra sensitive, thin and are more likely to decay. Also in addition to erosion posing a threat, teeth can come stained by chlorine with a yellow tint.

Photo provided by dentagama.com
The pool becomes harmful when it is not properly maintained. Water with a pH balance too high or too low will have a negative effect on your body and teeth. The water’s pH is a measure of its total acid-alkalinity balance in the water. Water with a pH balance that is too acidic or too alkaline will cause undesirable chemical reactions.

To protect your teeth:
  • Make sure your pool is properly maintained.
  • Purchase inexpensive pH strips to check balance of pool water.
  • Try to keep water out of your mouth while swimming.
  • Do not brush teeth right after swimming, with soft enamel you could be brushing enamel way.

No comments:

Post a Comment