Is chlorine bad for teeth? The beach vs. pool water debate

The effects of water on your dental enamel are probably something you never stopped to consider. Most people think the dangers between their health and water are being caught by a wave and their ability to swim. Well, you'll be surprised to know that chlorine can actually be bad for your teeth.

We cover some of the dangers of different types of water on your teeth in this article. From toothache from too much underwater pressure, (it's actually called Barodontalgia) to the erosion of tooth enamel from too much chlorine exposure. You probably didn't know there was so many effects water could have on your teeth.

We dive into some of the most interesting facts so you know the best water for your teeth and how to protect them.

Can swimming pool water affect your smile?

If your eyes have ever burned after splashing about in a pool, or you've thought "why do my teeth hurt after swimming?", you've probably encountered too much chlorine in the water. Too much of this oxidising agent can make water too acidic and disturb the pH balance.

As good as chlorine can be to rid bodies of water of disease, infections and other nasties, too much of it can have a damaging effect on your teeth.

Overexposure to chlorine in water can lead to the erosion of the enamel on your teeth. Side effects are plenty, one of the most common ones being increased teeth sensitivity. Even if the perfect balance of chlorine is achieved, prolonged exposure to chlorinated water can weaken your teeth. It's always advisable to wear swimming teeth protection and eye goggles if you swim professionally, or for any prolonged period of time.

Negative effects of chlorine

Here is a breakdown of the effect chlorine in swimming pool water can have on your teeth:

• Teeth staining or discolouration: Chlorine causes the enamel on your teeth to erode, making your teeth more susceptible to staining, especially if you spend a lot of time in the pool.
• Swimmer’s calculus: Swimmer’s tartar, otherwise known as swimmer’s calculus, is a specific type of tartar that forms on the teeth of people who regularly swim in chlorinated pools.
• Dry mouth: Frequent contact with chlorinated water can reduce saliva production, thus drying out the mouth. Saliva is needed to wash away excess food particles and to neutralise acid in the mouth. Lack of saliva can increase the risk of gum disease or tooth decay.

Chlorine, teeth stains and dry mouth: what's the connection?

Swimmer calculus, or chlorine stains are yellowish or brown in appearance, and they sometimes appear on the teeth of people who spend a lot of time in water (think water athletes and swimmers). Because the pH level in chlorine is higher than the saliva in your mouth, it causes the protein in your saliva to break down too quickly, which leaves calcified deposits and increased plaque on your teeth.

Is salt water good for your teeth?

Now, let's take a look at salt water by comparison. It’s no secret that gargling salt water is good for your teeth, especially after you’ve undergone dental work.

Your teeth can benefit from coming into contact with salt water when you swim in the sea, but be conscious of what else sea water contains. With the rise in ocean pollution, you should be cautious and minimise seawater intake.

We don’t recommend intentionally swirling a lot of seawater around your mouth during a trip to the beach because it's likely to contain other elements that could harm your oral health.

How to use a saltwater rinse

A better option would be to prepare your own solution of water and salt as a preventative or anti-bacterial solution if you undergo any dental work.

1. You can mix 250ml of water with 1 teaspoon of salt.
2. Gargle a gulp of it before spitting the rinse into the sink and discarding the contents of your mouth down the drain.
3. You can repeat if you think it's necessary.

If you're undergoing dental procedures or a tooth extraction, we always suggest discussing the health benefits with your dentist. At the least, we recommend waiting a minimum 24 hours before using saltwater as a rinse for the first time. Fit it into your normal routine when brushing your teeth.

Benefits of salt water for teeth

• Salt water as a mouth rinse has antibacterial properties. As it creates an alkaline environment in your mouth, it can reduce the risk of plaque, bad bacteria and reduce inflammation after surgery. Swirling salt water in your mouth can also freshen your breath, prevent sore throats and also be less of an irritiant than some mouthwashes that hold a high level of alcohol.
• It can help to heal minor sores in the mouth. This is why dentists recommend swirling salt water 1-2 times a day to speed up the healing process after having dental work.

Don't forget that there can be disadvantages of salt water too.

• The amount of salt and the size of the particles can be quite abrasive, causing your tooth enamel to erode over time.
• High levels of salt can also cause dehydration, which can reduce the amount of saliva produced in the mouth. Saliva is essential for neutralising acids in the mouth, therefore preventing tooth decay.
• The sea often holds a lot of bacteria, so although salt water can be antibacterial, it may not be a good idea to go into the sea if you have any sores or wounds in the mouth, as you may be exposing them to bacteria.

How to protect your teeth from salt water or chlorine when swimming

Here are just some suggestions you can follow after swimming in the sea for better protection of your teeth:

• Rinse your mouth with drinkable, fresh tap water or with a mouthwash to remove the excess salt from around your teeth.
• Dental hygiene, brushing and flossing and using a fluoride toothpaste should be standard in your daily hygiene routine. You might want to brush them after visiting a pool or swimming in the sea.
• Ensure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

The following are recommendations on how to protect your teeth from chlorine at the swimming pool:

• Rinse with fresh water or mouthwash after leaving the pool to ensure you rinse out any excess chlorine from around your teeth and gums.
• Use a mouthguard when swimming to minimise the amount of contact your teeth have when swimming in a chlorinated pool.
• Ensure the pH levels of the pool are optimal (between 7 and 7.8). Anything more acidic than this can speed up enamel erosion and cause damage to your gums.

How to care for your teeth with Impress

If you’re seeking a discreet and efficient means of straightening your teeth, we at Impress specialise in clear aligner treatments.

Interested in finding out more about how Impress can improve your smile? Visit your nearest Impress clinic and ask our team about the treatments available. You can also book an appointment online, by phone at +44 20 3808 1072, or via WhatsApp.