The warmth of spring has been growing throughout the past few months, and the hot days of summer are just ahead. With summer comes all our favorite outdoor activities, including long days spent in and around the pool. While swimming is great for our overall health, there are also certain risks that come along with all the chemicals found in treated pools. Even swimming holes that don’t have any chemical treatments can pose risks to our teeth. With just a little bit of caution this summer, we can enjoy ourselves thoroughly and end the season looking better than ever.
Risks To Watch Out For While Swimming This Summer
Whether you’re diving into beautiful clear rivers or are enjoying a swim at a local pool, it pays to take steps to protect your teeth this summer. Fitness centers treat their water chemically to keep down bacteria and to avoid spreading infection. While this makes for a nice clean swim, these chemicals can have detrimental effects on your oral health. Consider the following risks when swimming:
- Chlorine – Your enamel can be worn down by overexposure to chlorine. While public pools are often closely monitored, make sure your pool at home is treated by a professional. If treating it yourself, check it with a pH strip to ensure it falls in the proper range. You can also add enamel strengthening toothpaste to your routine to add protection.
- Swimmer’s Calculus – Another risk swimmers face water that is too acidic. This acid can cause a breakdown of your saliva, resulting in a dark brownish-yellow residue similar to tartar or plaque. Rinse your mouth frequently with fresh water to avoid this risk.
- Swimming Safety – The area around water, both pools, and rivers, tend to be slippery. Be careful when walking in these spaces, and don’t run. It can pay to wear water-shoes, and even wear a mouthguard while swimming.
These represent the most common risks that swimmers face while enjoying their time in the water. While swimming is a great way to take care of our overall health, be sure to take a few little extra steps to make sure you’re not facing any drawbacks.
Preparing For An Active Summer Ahead
While you’re getting ready to enjoy everything summer has to offer, remember to take care of your teeth a little more. Summer is a time full of sweet treats, bubbly drinks, and adventures hiking and swimming. If you’re going to be going on long summertime adventures, remember to bring your toothbrush and toothpaste with you. A little extra care along the way never hurts anyone, and it will certainly do your teeth a world of good. Contact your dentist to get more information about outdoor activities and oral hygiene. They’ll let you know everything you need to get the most out of your summer while keeping your smile beautiful.
