Pool vs beach: which has the best water for your teeth?

Whether you're simply looking for somewhere to beat the summer heat or you're a dedicated swimmer year-round, you might be surprised to learn that the water you swim in can affect your dental health. This article explores how salty sea water at the beach and chlorinated swimming pool water can impact your teeth. Continue reading to discover which type of water is best for your teeth and tips for protecting your teeth while swimming.

Is salt water at the beach good or bad? What it does to your teeth

It's well-known that gargling salt water has many benefits for your teeth, particularly after dental procedures.

In theory, swimming in the sea could provide similar benefits since your teeth come into contact with salt water. However, seawater contains more than just salt. We advise against intentionally swirling salt water from the sea in your mouth since it may contain other substances that could be bad for your teeth and overall oral health.

So, let’s suppose you visit a beach with unpolluted water that doesn't have excessive salt content. What are the benefits of salt water for your teeth?

• It can help minor sores in the mouth heal faster, which is why dentists recommend swirling salt water 1-2 times a day.
• Salt water is antibacterial. Gargling salt water in your mouth can reduce the amount of bacteria, preventing infections in your teeth and gums.
  

However, while salt water is good for your teeth in some ways, seawater can damage your teeth if you’re swimming in it frequently. In these cases, what does salt water do to your teeth?

• The sea often contains a lot of bacteria. So, while salt water has antibacterial properties, it may not be wise to enter the sea if you have any sores or wounds in your mouth since you might expose them to harmful bacteria.
• The amount of salt in the water and the size of the salt particles can be quite abrasive, which can damage your teeth over time.
  
• High levels of salt can also lead to dehydration, reducing saliva production in the mouth. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids, which helps prevent tooth decay.
  

However, there are tips you can follow to protect your teeth from salt water when swimming in the sea, which we will outline later in the article.

Does chlorine damage teeth? The effect of swimming pool water on your dental health

A trip to the swimming pool is something that almost everyone enjoys, especially in the summer to escape the heat. However, you should know that chlorine and teeth are not the best combination. Frequent exposure to high levels of chlorine does damage to your teeth.

Below we’ll summarize how the chlorine in swimming pool water can have a negative effect on your teeth:

• Dry mouth: Regular contact with chlorinated water can reduce saliva production, leading to a dry mouth. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acid in the mouth and washing away food particles. A lack of saliva can therefore increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
• Enamel erosion: Prolonged exposure to swimming pool water, especially water with a lot of added chlorine, can cause enamel erosion. Weaker enamel can lead to increased sensitivity, which may make your teeth hurt after swimming if you're a regular swimmer.
  
• Teeth staining or discoloration: If you spend a lot of time at the pool, the chlorine in the water can cause your enamel to erode, making your teeth more susceptible to staining.
  
• Swimmer’s calculus: Swimmer’s calculus, otherwise known as swimmer’s tartar, is a specific type of tartar that forms on the teeth of those who frequently swim in chlorinated pools.
  

If you're a regular swimmer, there are steps you can take to protect your teeth from chlorine and prevent increased sensitivity that may cause discomfort after swimming. Continue reading to learn how you can minimize the negative effects of swimming pool chlorine on your teeth.

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

Whether you prefer swimming at the beach or in the pool, there are a number of steps you can take to ensure optimal protection for your teeth.

Here you can read some tips on how to protect your teeth when swimming in the sea:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water after swimming.
• Gargle fresh water or mouthwash after swimming to ensure you get rid of any excess salt around your teeth and gums.
  
• Maintain a regular dental hygiene routine to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
  

The following tips outline how to protect your teeth from chlorine when you go to the swimming pool:

• Ensure the pH level of the pool falls between 7 and 7.8. Anything more acidic than this can damage your gums and lead to enamel erosion.
• Use fresh water or mouthwash to rinse any excess chlorine from around your teeth and gums when you leave the pool.
  
• Use a mouthguard when you swim so that you can prevent your teeth from touching the water as much as possible.
  
• Maintain a regular oral hygiene routine and use toothpaste with fluoride to strengthen your enamel.
  
• Regularly attend visits with your dentist so that they can evaluate the condition of your teeth.
  

Considering the pros and cons of swimming in both the pool and the sea, it's clear that neither type of water can be considered “best” for your teeth. Ultimately, as long as you take good care of your dental health, you can enjoy swimming in both the pool and the sea regularly.

Improve your dental health with Impress

We've discussed how to care for your teeth when swimming at the pool or the beach, but did you know that at Impress we can help you improve your oral health even more?

If you’re looking for a treatment that will straighten your teeth discreetly and efficiently, you might be interested in a clear aligner treatment with Impress.

If you’d like to hear more about how Impress can give you more confidence in your smile, ask our team about our treatments at your nearest Impress clinic.

You can also schedule a complimentary consultation online or by calling us at 888.490.1421.