Protecting Your Smile: Chlorine vs Your Teeth

When you think of chlorine’s effects, your teeth probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind — but they should be. Frequent exposure to chlorinated pools can lead to tooth discolouration, weakened enamel, and increased sensitivity.

At KIKOKAI, we believe swimming shouldn’t come at the cost of your smile. That’s why we’ve put together our top tips to help you protect your teeth and keep your smile healthy and bright!

1. Rinse your mouth post-swim

It might sound simple, but rinsing your mouth with fresh water right after swimming can make a real difference. Chlorine can leave behind acids that weaken enamel and contribute to plaque buildup. A quick rinse helps neutralise these acids, wash away chlorine residue, and reduce the risk of staining and enamel damage.

2. Check the pool’s pH (if you can)

Not all pools are equal. If a pool’s pH is too low (under 7.0), the water becomes overly acidic — bad news for your enamel.

If you regularly swim at the same gym or club, ask how often the pool’s pH is tested and maintained. Ideally, it should sit between 7.2 and 7.8 for both comfort and tooth safety.

3. Breathe through your nose when possible

Breathing through your mouth while swimming or resting can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva flow — and saliva is your body’s natural defence against acid and bacteria.

Try to breathe through your nose, especially when resting between sets. It helps keep your mouth hydrated and better protected.

4. Stay hydrated

Hydration isn’t just important for your workout — it also supports your oral health. Drinking water during and after your swim helps rinse away chlorine, reduces the risk of plaque buildup, and supports healthy saliva production.

Tip: Keep a reusable water bottle poolside and take small sips regularly.

5. Try xylitol gum or mints

Xylitol is a natural, tooth-friendly sweetener found in some gums and mints. It can help neutralise acids and stimulate saliva production after a swim.

Chewing sugar-free xylitol gum post-swim is a simple way to keep your mouth balanced and reduce the impact of chlorine on your teeth.

6. Avoid brushing immediately after swimming

Chlorine can temporarily soften tooth enamel, so brushing right after swimming may actually cause more harm than good.

Instead, we recommend: 

- Waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing

- Avoiding acidic snacks or drinks post-swim

- Considering using a custom-fit swim mouthguard for extra protection if you swim in a heavily chlorinated pool

7. Keep up with regular dental check-ups

If swimming is a regular part of your routine, dental check-ups are especially important.

Your dentist can:

- Spot early signs of chlorine-related wear

- Monitor enamel erosion or sensitivity

- Remove plaque and surface staining before they become bigger problems

Regular cleanings and exams help you stay ahead of any potential issues—and keep your smile in top shape.

Final Thoughts

Swimming is a fantastic way to stay fit and feel great — but it doesn’t have to come at your teeth’s expense. With just a few mindful habits, you can protect your enamel, reduce discolouration, and swim with confidence.