The Silent Summer Risk That’s Hiding in Your Pool

Here in Fort Myers, pool season is nearly year-round. If you swim in pools frequently, there’s something you should know. Swimming in acidic pool water can quietly erode your tooth enamel.

It’s not just a theory, it’s science. A CDC-backed study of 747 swimmers found enamel erosion rates jump to 15% among frequent swimmers, compared to just 3% in non-swimmers. Even more shocking? A case study showed visible enamel damage after just 27 days of daily laps in an overly acidic pool.

So, while you’re cooling off, your enamel could be wearing thin and you might not even feel it until it’s too late.

What’s Really Going on with Your Teeth in the Pool?

Here’s a breakdown of how your pool water might be turning against your smile:

• Chlorine by-products can drop a pool’s pH below 7.0, making it acidic.
• That acid softens tooth enamel, letting calcium leach right out of the teeth.
• Over time, teeth start to feel chalky, stain brown, and become more likely to chip or crack.

Studies from around the world, from the U.S. to Egypt to Thailand, have documented pools testing with pH levels as low as 2.7. That’s more acidic than soda! And yes, it can absolutely damage your smile.

Your 90-Second Anti-Erosion Routine

At Smiles of Fort Myers we are all about prevention so of course we have some thoughts on how to protect your smile before from potential damage at the pool.

Before you swim: Get a quick fluoride varnish at your next visit, it acts like a temporary shield for your enamel.

Right after swimming: Swish with water or a neutral pH mouth rinse for 90 seconds (don’t skip this, it makes a big difference).

Before bed: Brush with a prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste to help repair enamel while you sleep.

Simple, fast, and super effective, especially for daily swimmers or kids in summer leagues.

DIY Pool Owner Checklist: Is Your Pool Eroding Smiles?

If you have a pool, here is a quick checklist to keep your water smile friendly:

• Test your pool’s pH often the CDC recommended sweet spot of 7.2 to 7.8
• After a party or storm? Rebalance ASAP. Baking soda can help neutralize sudden drops.
• Keep a neutral-pH mouthwash in the rest room or changing area near the pool and make rinsing part of your post-swim routine.

Because the best backyard science experiments are the ones that don’t end in a dental emergency. If you have concerns about enamel erosion, schedule an appointment at Smiles of Fort Myers. We are here to help!