Although swimming laps in the pool is a great way for children to stay fit and burn off extra energy, chemicals in the water can negatively impact their smiles. Swimmer’s teeth is a condition where pool water causes tartar deposits to form, leading to discolored teeth.

Below, the pediatric dentists at La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry in Wisconsin share everything you need to know about swimmer’s teeth and ways to prevent it:

• How It Happens: Swimming exposes teeth to harsh pool water additives like antimicrobials. These chemicals boost the water’s pH levels, but when swallowed, the water causes protein in saliva to break down and collect on the teeth.
• Common Results: Front teeth are the most exposed to pool water, so deposits are concentrated in this area of the mouth. The deposits are normally hard tartar clusters that appear brown or yellow.
• Ways to Prevent It: If your children swim more than six hours a week, consider increasing their trips to the pediatric dentist. Regular teeth cleaning three to four times a year will remove chemicals before stains can form. You should also encourage your kids to rinse their mouth with tap water after swimming and give them fluoride toothpaste.

If your children suffer from swimmer’s teeth, the team at La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry will help. To schedule an appointment with the pediatric dentist, call (608) 782-4054. Visit the practice online to discover how they will care for your kids’ teeth, and like them on Facebook for updated news and announcements.