Swimmer’s Mouth

How does Competitive Swimming affect your Teeth?

Competitive swimming is a brilliant sport. It builds endurance, strength, and discipline but did you know it might be harming your teeth? Recent research has uncovered a surprising connection between long hours in the pool and poor oral health. If you’re a swimmer, coach, or parent of a swimmer, this is something you need to know.

What is Swimmer’s Mouth?

Swimmer’s Mouth refers to a set of dental issues caused by repeated exposure to chlorinated water. This includes

1. Staining
2. Tarter Buildup
3. Enamel Erosion

What is the culprit? Chlorine – the chemical used to disinfect pool water.

Top 3 Dental Problems for Swimmers

Chlorine-Stained Teeth

Chlorinated water has a lower pH than your saliva. This acidic environment reacts with proteins in your mouth, forming stains, often yellow or brown, mostly on the front teeth. Unfortunately, regular brushing won’t remove them.

Swimmer’s Calculus

This is hardened plaque biofilm that forms faster in swimmers because chlorine can create a film on the teeth that traps minerals and bacteria. Over time, this builds up into thick deposits that need professional cleaning.

Enamel Erosion

Some pools have pH levels as low as 2.7–4.0 which is far more acidic than the ideal range of 7.0–7.6. This acid slowly dissolves tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity, increased risk of cavities and permanent damage. In some studies, up to 15% of daily pool swimmers showed erosion, versus 3% of infrequent swimmers.

Research has found that 39-48% of competitive swimmers had some level of enamel erosion. It also showed that the more hours spent in the pool, the worse the erosion was. Swimmer’s training over 6 hours per week are at higher risk.

Divers or athletes in water sports risk barodontalgia, where pressure changes affect untreated cavities or cracks, causing sudden tooth pain or even fractures. Physical activities like diving or poolside running may also lead to chipped or knocked-out teeth.  Wearing a specially designed swimming mouthguard may be a simple way to protect yourself.

Protect your Smile

Don’t worry, you don’t have to give up pool swimming to protect your mouth but here are some tips to take extra care.

1. Rinse your mouth immediately with tap water after each swimming pool session.
2. Use Fluoride Toothpaste as soon as possible after each session.
3. Visit your dentist regularly for checks, cleanings and topical fluoride if necessary.
4. Carry out a daily test of pool pH level.
5. Use small amounts of Xylitol gum to prevent dental decay.