Splish, splash—it’s officially pool season on Long Island! While we love a good cannonball as much as the next guppy, our pediatric dentists want parents to know that swimming, while fun, comes with a few hidden risks for your child’s smile.
At Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental, we’re all about fun in the sun, but we’re also passionate about keeping kids’ teeth healthy year-round. Before your little swimmers dive in, take a moment to learn how summer pool habits can impact their dental health and how to steer clear of emergency visits that might ruin a beach day.
Let’s dive in.
1. Pool Water Can Be Rough on Teeth (Really!)
Here’s a lesser-known fact: Chemically treated pool water can potentially affect tooth enamel. When swimming pools aren’t properly balanced, frequent exposure to that kind of water—especially in kids who swim several times a week—can cause something called “swimmer’s calculus” or “swimmer’s mouth.”
This is a chalky, yellow-brown buildup on the front teeth, and while it’s not dangerous, it can stain enamel and make your child’s smile look dull. Worse, prolonged exposure to acidic water can weaken enamel, making teeth more sensitive and cavity-prone.
What You Can Do
- Make sure the pools your child swims in are professionally maintained.
- Encourage kids to rinse with clean water after swimming.
- Get regular cleanings from our pediatric dentist to catch buildup early.
2. Don’t Let Poolside Play Lead to a Dental Emergency
We know that telling kids not to run at the pool is easier said than done. But slips and face-first falls are a leading cause of summer dental injuries, especially around concrete edges, diving boards, and splash pads.
From chips to knocked-out baby or permanent teeth, our pediatric dentist sees a tidal wave of accidents every summer that could have been prevented with a little caution.
Swim-Smart Tip
- Walk (don’t run!) around wet surfaces.
- No diving in shallow water.
- Use pool shoes for a better grip.
- For kids with braces or retainers, use a mouthguard for added protection.
Bonus
If a tooth does get knocked out, place it in milk or saliva and head to our office to see our emergency pediatric dentist immediately.
3. Hydration Helps More Than You Think
Staying hydrated isn’t just important for avoiding heatstroke. It’s key to maintaining good oral health. Water helps wash away sugars from summer treats, keeps saliva levels up, and helps neutralize acids that cause decay.
Sugary sports drinks and sodas may be pool party favorites, but try offering chilled water, fruit-infused seltzers, or even frozen watermelon slices as tooth-friendly alternatives.
4. Stay on Schedule, Even When Sch3421ool’s Out
With school out and routines more relaxed, it’s easy for dental habits to slip. But brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular checkups are still the best defense against tooth decay, even during vacation.
We recommend booking your child’s checkup now, so any issues are caught before the back-to-school rush. Plus, it’s always more fun to come in with a summer tan and stories from the beach.
Sail Through Summer with Our Long Island Pediatric Dentists
At Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental, we want your child’s summer to be filled with sunshine, laughter, and healthy smiles. A few smart precautions around the pool can prevent major dental drama and make sure your little fish keeps grinning to the end of the season.
Ready for a summer checkup or have a concern about your child’s smile? Schedule a visit with our trusted pediatric dentist on Long Island today. We’re here to make every smile strong, safe, and sea-worthy.