Swimmers and Divers, Watch Those Teeth!

ANYONE WHO SWIMS or scuba dives frequently could encounter some unique dental issues if they aren’t careful. Let’s take a closer look at the big ones.

Chlorine’s Effect on Teeth

The longer teeth are exposed to acidic chlorine ions in pool water, the more likely they are to develop brown or yellow stains. These are called swimmer’s calculus. As good as chlorine is at keeping a public pool sanitary for all swimmers, it can become acidic enough to affect tooth enamel. Swimmers can minimize this effect by swimming with their mouths closed as much as possible and drinking plenty of water to rinse traces of pool water off of their teeth.

Scuba Divers With Dental Work

Scuba divers have a different set of concerns, particularly “tooth squeeze” or barodontalgia. That feeling of pressure building up in the ears when diving to the bottom of the pool is very similar to what happens inside each tooth, especially teeth with untreated cavities or ineffective dental treatment. The pressure can build to such a degree that it can even fracture teeth, which is why we strongly encourage divers to visit the dentist before starting a new diving season.

Divers often also deal with ill-fitting scuba mouthpieces, which can lead to jaw strain and even TMD symptoms. We recommend getting a custom-fitted mouthpiece to protect the teeth and jaws.

Still Wondering About Dental Health and Water Activities?

If you have any lingering questions about maintaining your dental health while enjoying water activities, don’t hesitate to reach out! Remember, besides the fun and splash, wet surfaces around pools pose a slip hazard that could lead to dental injuries. Stay cautious and protect your smile while you dive into summer fun!

Wishing all our patients a wonderful and safe summer!

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Share
Published by
Adrian Lefler

Recent Posts

Follow the Dentist’s Halloween Advice!

THE REASON SUGAR is so dangerous for our oral health is that harmful oral bacteria…

1 week ago

How Can I Defend Against Gum Recession?

ELDERLY PEOPLE ARE not the only people at risk of gum recession, even though that…

3 weeks ago

Anyone With Kids Should Follow These Teeth Tips

THERE ARE MANY things parents can do to put their kids' smiles on the right…

1 month ago

How Do I Choose One of These Toothpastes?

IN THE PHARMACY section of every grocery store, one side of an entire aisle...

2 months ago

Thumbsucking Isn’t a Problem — At First

IF A CHILD CONTINUES their finger or thumb-sucking habit past their toddler years, it can...

2 months ago

Health Benefits Come With Smiling More!

OF COURSE WE SMILE when we feel happy, but there's evidence to show that the…

3 months ago