Swimming is a summertime staple.
Swimming is a summertime staple. July is one of the hottest months of the year, so it makes sense to take a dip in the pool or swim in the ocean to cool down. Overall, dentists don’t frown upon swimming as they do with boxing or football with regards to mouth injuries. Swimming is an excellent activity that burns calories and keeps both children and adults healthy. However, spending too much time in the pool or ocean can affect your teeth. Read on to learn how.
Calculus
The more time you spend swimming, the more your teeth are exposed to chlorine. Being exposed to chlorinated water could lead to swimmer’s calculus. Chlorine deposits residue on your teeth, causing discoloration if there is too much exposure. Swimmer’s calculus typically happens to those who spend more than six hours a week in chlorinated water.
If you or your child’s teeth are stained, then this is an easy fix typically with a quick polish For our adult patients, we have multiple options which include polishing and teeth bleaching solutions! Here at Smile Designs of Olney, we specialize in teeth whitening. Our in-office whitening system, “GLO Science,” is ADA approved and will help you obtain a glowing, gloat worthy smile. Curious about this product? Call in and ask us about it!
Sensitive Teeth
You should hire a professional to check the chlorine levels if you have a pool at home. Pools filled with too much chlorine can cause damage to your enamel. If your enamel becomes weak over time, teeth can become highly sensitive. If you suffer from sensitive teeth, contact us so we can provide a safe solution!
Mouth Injuries
Water activities such as volleyball, pool basketball or even jumping around with friends are considered high-contact water sport that increase your risk of tooth and jaw injuries. To prevent damage, make sure to wear a mouth guard as you play.
Barodontalgia
Barodontalgia, or “tooth squeeze” occurs when you’re swimming in water that has a high pressure aka deeper water. If you enjoy diving or snorkeling, then this applies to you. Because the outside your mouth pressure is so extreme, the air inside your mouth matches it to compensate, causing discomfort. Barodontalgia can also cause damage to fillings, dentures, and crowns, so make sure to visit a dentist before your next dive to assess where you stand with your dental health care.
Lost Retainers and Dentures
Retainers shouldn’t be in place while swimming. Not only could you lose them,but chlorine damages them. Regarding full or partial dentures, you can keep them in but make sure to use denture adhesive to secure them. If they’re loose, contact a dentist right away.
Come to Smile Designs of Olney for All of Your Cosmetic Procedures
For your smile makeover or any other dental needs, come to Smile Designs of Olney! Book an appointment with us. Whether you want your teeth whitened, straightened, or restored altogether, we pride ourselves in quality patient care and giving you the smile makeover that you deserve. Our small, professional staff will make you feel right at home. We service the Montgomery County regions including Olney, Laytonsville, Brookville, Silver Spring, Rockville, Columbia, Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Germantown, MD. Contact us at (301) 260-0700, visit us online, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube.