Swimming and diving are fun and healthy activities, but did you know they can have hidden effects on your teeth? While water-based sports are excellent for your overall fitness, they can sometimes lead to dental issues like swimmer’s calculus or barodontalgia. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or a professional diver, understanding these risks can help you keep your smile healthy.

At University Family Dental in Las Cruces, we want to help you protect your teeth while enjoying your favorite water activities. Let’s take a closer look at the ways swimming and diving can impact your teeth and how you can protect them while enjoying the water.

Swimmer’s Calculus: Stains Caused by Chlorinated Water

Swimming in highly chlorinated pools may lead to a condition known as swimmer’s calculus. This happens when prolonged exposure to chlorinated water affects the pH balance of your mouth, leading to unsightly calcium deposits on your teeth.

What are the signs of swimmer’s calculus?

Yellow or brown stains on your teeth are common indicators of this condition. Regular swimmers—those who spend more than six hours a week in a pool—are especially at risk.
How does it happen?

High levels of chlorine in pool water can alter the natural chemistry of your saliva, causing minerals to stick to the enamel of your teeth.
What can you do to prevent it?
- Rinse your mouth with clean water after swimming.
- Brush and floss daily to remove any buildup.
- Visit a dentist near you for professional cleanings to eliminate stains and buildup.

Barodontalgia, or Tooth Squeeze: Painful Pressure Changes

If you’re a diver, you may have experienced sharp pain in your teeth or gums while underwater. This condition, called barodontalgia or “tooth squeeze,” occurs due to changes in pressure that affect air pockets in your teeth.

Why does barodontalgia happen?

It usually occurs in divers who have untreated dental issues like cavities, cracks, or loose fillings. The pressure changes during a dive can cause trapped air to expand or contract, leading to pain.
How can you avoid tooth squeeze?
- Get a dental checkup before diving to address cavities, cracks, or other problems.
- Use a custom-fitted mouthguard to reduce stress on your jaw and teeth.
- Avoid diving if you have unresolved dental issues, as they may worsen under pressure.

Are Sugary Snacks and Drinks Hurting Your Smile?

After a swim or dive, it’s tempting to grab a sugary sports drink or snack to refuel. Unfortunately, these choices can lead to tooth decay and gum problems over time.

Why is sugar bad after swimming?

Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and cavities.
Healthier alternatives:
- Choose water or unsweetened beverages to stay hydrated.
- Snack on teeth-friendly foods like apples, carrots, or cheese to promote saliva production.
- Rinse your mouth with water or chew sugar-free gum after eating.

Protecting Kids’ Teeth During Water Activities

Children often spend more time in pools, making their developing teeth susceptible to chlorine damage and injuries. Plus, playful diving or rough water games can lead to chipped or broken teeth.

Tips for parents:
- Ensure kids wear mouthguards during diving or high-impact water sports.
- Teach them to avoid chewing pool toys or biting on hard objects like goggles.
- Schedule regular visits to a dentist to monitor their oral health.

General Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy While Swimming and Diving

Enjoying water sports doesn’t have to come at the cost of your smile. Follow these tips to maintain healthy teeth:

Test Pool pH Levels:
Make sure the chlorine levels in your pool are balanced to avoid damaging your teeth.
Wear a Mouthguard:
Protect your teeth from pressure and trauma during diving or water polo.
Stay Hydrated:
Drinking water helps maintain a healthy pH balance in your mouth and washes away harmful bacteria.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene:
Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup and cavities.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly:
A professional cleaning at our dental clinic in Las Cruces can help remove stains, treat cavities, and keep your teeth healthy.

Swimming and diving are fantastic activities, but understanding how they affect your teeth is key to maintaining a healthy smile. Whether it’s preventing swimmer’s calculus or avoiding barodontalgia, a little extra care can go a long way in protecting your oral health.

If you’re experiencing any dental issues related to swimming or diving, don’t wait to seek help. Contact University Family Dental, your trusted Las Cruces dentist, for expert advice and personalized care. Schedule your appointment today to keep your teeth healthy and your smile radiant!