1️. Salt water from the sea
Seawater contains salt and minerals that dry out the mouth, temporarily decreasing saliva production. Saliva is your best natural defense against bacteria. After prolonged swimming, you may experience a dry feeling and a lingering salty taste.
2️. Chlorine in swimming pools
Swimming pools treated with chlorine or specific disinfectants have a more acidic pH than pure water. This pH can, over time, weaken tooth enamel and irritate the mucous membranes. In regular swimmers (several hours per week), yellowish-brown deposits called “swimmer’s tartar” are sometimes observed, linked to the increased mineralization of dental plaque.
3️. Long baths
Spending a long time in water can promote dehydration and reduce the protective salivary film, which further exposes your teeth and gums to external aggressions (bacteria, acidity).
Good habits before and after swimming
- Hydrate yourself regularly
Drink water before, during and after swimming to maintain good saliva production.
- Rinse your mouth after each session
After getting out of the water, simply rinse your mouth with fresh water to remove any salt or chlorine residue. This is enough to restore a more neutral pH.
- Brush your teeth after 30 minutes
If you've been swimming for a long time, wait about 30 minutes before brushing. Immediately after exposure to chlorine or salt water, enamel can be temporarily weakened. Waiting allows saliva to naturally remineralize it.
- Use a remineralizing toothpaste
Choose a toothpaste that strengthens enamel and respects the microbiota.
The Smilist Whitening Remineralizing Toothpaste is a great option to help your teeth remineralize after these exposures.
- Protect your sensitive gums
If you are prone to irritation, choose a gentle alcohol-free mouthwash, which soothes and rebalances the flora. We recommend The Smilist Anti-Plaque Whitening Micro-Essence which is particularly suitable.
Regular swimmers: special vigilance
If you swim several times a week:
- Have your teeth and gums checked 1 to 2 times a year.
- Tell your dentist about your regular practice.
- Watch for the appearance of spots or roughness.
- Use a soft brush and remineralizing toothpaste daily. The Smilist 10-bristle ultra-soft polishing toothbrush is ideal for gentle cleaning after swimming!
In short
Does chlorine really damage teeth?
Yes, in high doses and over the long term, chlorine can unbalance the oral pH, weaken the enamel and promote the formation of tartar. Hence the importance of rinsing after each swim.
How do I know if my teeth are affected by swimming?
Brown spots, a feeling of dryness, or increased sensitivity may be signs. Talk to your dentist if you are a regular swimmer.
Swimming is excellent for your mood and physical health. With a few simple steps, you can make it compatible with the health of your smile!
Take care of your smile, it deserves as much attention as your skin or hair during the summer!
Christiane
Dentist & co-founder of The Smilist
