Summer means long days at the pool, popsicles, and plenty of fun in the sun. But while you’re making sure your kids wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, there’s another thing to keep in mind: their teeth. Most parents don’t realize that swimming—especially in chlorinated pools—can impact kids’ oral hygiene in ways you might not expect.
How Chlorine Affects Kids’ Teeth
Swimming is great exercise, but frequent exposure to chlorinated water can have side effects on dental health. Pools use chlorine to kill bacteria, but it can affect pH levels. When the pH drops too low, the water becomes acidic—and that’s where trouble starts for teeth.
Acidic water can erode tooth enamel, the hard outer layer that protects teeth. For kids whose enamel is still developing and naturally thinner than adults, this can be a real concern. Regular and prolonged swimming in improperly maintained pools can result in a condition known as “swimmer’s calculus.” This shows up as brownish or yellowish stains, often on the front teeth.
Chlorine Stains vs. Cavities in Children
It’s important to know that chlorine-related stains are not cavities. However, the rougher, damaged enamel left behind after exposure can make it easier for plaque to build up. And where there’s plaque, cavities in children are likely to follow.
Even if your child isn’t swimming every day, it’s worth being aware of how the combination of chlorine, sugary summer snacks, and less structured routines can all impact kids’ oral hygiene. Kids might snack more frequently and brush less consistently when school’s out, raising the risk for cavities.
Tips to Protect Your Child’s Teeth During Pool Season
Staying out of the pool isn’t the answer—swimming is fantastic for overall health. But you can take steps to minimize the chlorine effect and keep your child’s smile healthy:
- Choose Well-Maintained Pools: Pools with proper pH balance (between 7.2 and 7.8) are less likely to cause enamel erosion. Ask your local pool how often they test and adjust the water chemistry.
- Keep Mouths Closed: Teach your kids to avoid letting pool water sit in their mouths or swishing it around. The less contact, the better.
- Rinse After Swimming: Encourage your child to rinse their mouth with fresh water right after swimming. This helps wash away any chlorine that might linger on their teeth.
- Stick to a Strong Oral Care Routine: Summer can be a bit chaotic, but keeping up with regular kids dental cleaning habits is crucial. That means brushing twice a day with a dentist-recommended fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.
- Visit the Dentist: Regular dental checkups ensure that any signs of chlorine stains or early cavities in children are caught and addressed early. Summer is a great time to schedule a kids dental cleaning, especially after weeks of swim lessons or daily pool time.
What If You Notice Stains?
If you see discoloration on your child’s teeth that wasn’t there before swim season, don’t panic. Stains from chlorine exposure typically sit on the surface of the enamel and can often be polished away during a professional kids dental cleaning. However, if there are signs of enamel erosion or cavities, your dentist might recommend fluoride treatments or sealants to protect your child’s teeth moving forward.
Beyond the Pool: Other Summer Risks to Watch
While chlorine is a big topic, summer, in general, can be tough on kids’ oral hygiene. Sticky treats like marshmallows, chewy candies, and frequent sipping on sugary drinks can all increase the risk of cavities in children. Combine that with late bedtimes and missed brushing sessions, and you’ve got a recipe for dental trouble.
Encourage your kids to drink water instead of artificial juice or soda, and pack tooth-friendly snacks like cheese sticks, nuts (if age-appropriate), and crunchy veggies. A little planning goes a long way toward keeping their teeth healthy all summer.
The Takeaway
Swimming is a wonderful part of summer, and with a few precautions, you can keep it fun and worry-free. Stay alert to the potential effects of chlorine on your child’s teeth, and keep kids dental cleaning routines on track no matter how busy life gets. By staying consistent with their oral hygiene and making smart choices around pools and snacks, you’ll set your child up for a cavity-free, healthy smile all season long.
