At Sedona Molar Kids, we want families to enjoy everything summer has to offer—without hidden dental risks. So, let’s dive into the connection between chlorine and your child’s teeth, and how you can keep their smile strong all season long.

💦 Can Swimming Really Affect Teeth?

Yes! But not in the way you might expect.

Swimming pools—especially public or backyard pools that are improperly maintained—often have high chlorine levels. Chlorine is necessary to kill bacteria in the water, but when the pH balance isn’t carefully monitored, it can become too acidic. And just like acidic foods or sugary drinks, acidic pool water can slowly wear away your child’s tooth enamel over time.

This condition is sometimes called “swimmer’s calculus” or enamel erosion from pool exposure, and it’s especially common in kids who spend several hours a week in chlorinated water.

🦷 What Does Chlorine-Related Tooth Damage Look Like?

If your child is a regular swimmer—think swim team, swim lessons, or daily dips in the pool—watch for these signs:

• Yellowing or darkened teeth(Enamel erosion reveals the darker dentin underneath.)

• Rough, pitted surfaces on front teeth

• Increased sensitivity to cold foods or drinks

• Staining around the gumline

These changes can happen slowly and may go unnoticed until your child has a dental exam.

🏊‍♀️ Who’s Most at Risk?

• Children who swim more than 6 hours per week in chlorinated pools

• Kids who frequently open their mouths underwater

• Swimmers in pools that are not professionally maintained

Luckily, natural bodies of water, like rivers or lakes, don’t carry the same risk—but pools definitely need a bit of attention from parents.

✅ Tips to Protect Your Child’s Teeth This Summer

1. Rinse After SwimmingEncourage your child to rinse their mouth with fresh water after pool time. This helps wash away acidic residue.

2. Keep Up Good Brushing HabitsBrushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste helps strengthen enamel and prevent erosion.

3. Mouth Closed, Please!Teach kids to keep their mouths closed while swimming to reduce contact between chlorinated water and their teeth.

4. Check Pool pH RegularlyIf you have a home pool, make sure the water is balanced. The ideal pH is between 7.2 and 7.8.

5. Schedule a Summer CheckupThe best way to spot early signs of enamel damage is with a pediatric dental exam. At Sedona Molar Kids, we’ll check for subtle changes and offer personalized protection plans.

   
   

😁 Let Your Kids Swim—and Smile—Safely

Swimming is one of the healthiest and happiest parts of summer for Sedona families. But just like we put on sunscreen to protect our skin, a little extra awareness can help protect our kids’ teeth, too.

At Sedona Molar Kids, we’re here to keep smiles strong, bright, and cavity-free—even during the splashiest season of the year.

📅 Ready for a Poolside Smile Check?

Book your child’s summer dental visit with the trusted experts in kids dentistry in Sedona, AZ. Let’s make sure their teeth are as ready for summer fun as they are!